menetlema

Menetlema is a term used in speculative discussions to denote a hypothetical cognitive-social phenomenon wherein individuals consistently reinterpret new information to fit an internally coherent narrative, even when evidence would support an alternative interpretation. It is not a formal or widely recognized concept in mainstream psychology, linguistics, or philosophy, and there is no consensus on a precise definition or boundaries.

Origins and etymology: The term appears in online discussions from the early 21st century, with no clear origin in any single author. The word appears to be a coined compound, possibly drawing on elements suggestive of mind and meaning or lemma, but there is no authoritative etymology.

Usage: In speculative contexts, menetlema is used to discuss how individuals and groups create and maintain shared narratives. It is sometimes framed as a mechanism that links cognitive bias, memory reconstruction, and social influence. Critics argue that the concept is ill-defined and overlaps with established ideas such as confirmation bias, narrative construction, and social contagion.

Variants and related terms: Related concepts include interpretive bias, cognitive dissonance, and collective memory. In fiction or thought-experiments, menetlema may be invoked to illustrate how belief systems persist.

See also: cognitive bias, narrative psychology, social epistemology, memetics.

References: There are no peer-reviewed sources defining menetlema; mentions appear primarily in online discussions and speculative essays.