> > From: Eva-Lise Carlstrom[SMTP:eva-lise@efn.org]
> >
> > A meme is analogous to a gene in that it is a relatively simple
> > element
> > which may be replicated. More elaborate constructs are referred to as
> > meme-complexes or schemes. A virus is a meme-complex that encourages
> > its
> > own replication by a host...
> >
> Despite the fact I've done some reading and been
> around here for a while, I'm still not clear on this:
> what's the difference between a virus and any
> other meme-complex? Surely they all encourage
> their own replication?
>
> Robin
>
All meme-complexes *can* be replicated; some include elements that
encourage their replication, memes such as
"Widespread adoption of this meme-complex is the only hope for humanity"
or
"Send ten copies of this letter to your friends"
Meme-complexes can exist without such replication-encouraging elements,
but they then reproduce more haphazardly.
Eva