Metamemetics

Metamemetics is a theoretical framework that explores the study of memes, not as individual units of cultural information, but as the underlying principles and processes that govern meme transmission, evolution, and interaction. It moves beyond the analysis of specific memes to investigate the meta-level dynamics that shape the memetic landscape. Think of it as the study of the "rules of the game" for memes, rather than just cataloging the players or specific plays.

Key concepts within metamemetics might include the identification of universal memetic attractors, which are patterns or themes that consistently emerge across different cultures and time periods. It could also involve analyzing memetic fitness, the factors that contribute to a meme's success or failure in propagating through a population, and the relationships between different memes, such as memetic symbiosis or competition.

Furthermore, metamemetics could delve into the cognitive and neurological underpinnings of memetic engagement, seeking to understand why certain ideas are more susceptible to adoption and replication than others. It also considers the impact of environmental factors, such as technological advancements or social structures, on the memetic ecosystem. Ultimately, metamemetics aims to build a more robust and predictive understanding of cultural evolution by focusing on the fundamental mechanisms driving the spread and transformation of ideas.