An Investigation of cultural complexity via memetics: Methodological rationale and its operationalisation

GILL, Jameson (2011). An Investigation of cultural complexity via memetics: Methodological rationale and its operationalisation. In: Sheffield Doctoral Conference, Sheffield, 19-20th April 2011. (Unpublished)

Preview

PDF An_Investigation_of_cultural_complexity_via_memetics.pdf Download (316kB) | Preview

Abstract

After introducing the background and motivation for my work a portion of my PhD research is presented which considers issues related to the nature of my literature review and the subsequent decisions I have made in respect of an appropriate methodology for empirical work. Literature related to a neo-Darwinian view of human culture is discussed and a number of difficulties related to an absence of consensus amongst theorists are highlighted. The neo-Darwinian perspective demands a replicator in culture which is analogous to the gene in biology and the candidate for that replicator has become know as the meme. The abduction of a narrative orientated methodology for searching for such a replicator is explained and its application demonstrated through an example of coded data. The analysis is based on a structural narrative approach and in particular on the notion of narrative programmes which interact and perhaps compete in social environments. Following concluding remarks the next steps of my PhD work are described. KEY WORDS: Meme, Memetics, Narrative, Complexity

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018:	Sheffield Business School Research Institute > People, Work and Organisation
Departments - Does NOT include content added after October 2018:	Sheffield Business School > Department of Management
Depositing User:	Jameson Gill
Date Deposited:	11 Jan 2012 13:35
Last Modified:	18 Mar 2021 08:08
URI:	https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/4242

Actions (login required)

View Item

Downloads

Publication Metrics