Monday, December 12, 2005

The right wing "meme"

The biologist Richard Dawkins in his book "The Selfish Gene" coined the word "meme" describing a cultural phenomana for many perculiar enduring traits in societies. In the same way genes replicate through the process of random mutation and natural selection, Dawkins posited that certain cultural traits have certain qualities about them which ensures their survival, which he calls "memes". The fact that these traits are longstanding does not mean they are based on rational criteria. On the contrary, the distinguishing quality of a "meme" is that it is able to infect the minds of individuals despite it being irrational. A "meme" in a sense is a cultural virus, which despite the trait having little value at all manages to penetrates the cultures of various societies. Dawkins for example as an aestheist insists that religion is such a meme, which though despite its "non rational" qualities derives its popularity through fear, reward and punishment etc.

But what's an example of a modern day meme. I would suggest that the rise of the "right wing perspective" is such a meme poisoning the minds of people with utter rubbish. When I say "right wing" I am in particular focused on issues concerning social and foreign policy issues, as opposed to economic issues. When one looks at the last few years at various countries (most notably the US) we have seen a strengthening of the right wing. But what could account for the right wing position being so strong? Surely its not rationality sustaining their positions.

Rather, this meme is being sustained as other memes have been sustained by non-rational influences. The right wing position is nourished on fear and in times of instability, fear is a sure winner at election times. The right, which asserts aggressiveness over responsibility, rashness over caution, simplicity over complexity is a sure simple cure for people's insecurities.

Anyone who understands any conflict with depth understands that matters are never black and white, and require careful reflection and thought. The right wing perspective on the other hand view the world through simplistic glasses viewing reality ahistorically, conveniently positing a narrative that supports their position. Self-righteousness is seen as a virtue, self-criticism a weakness. For them the media, whose job is to monitor the centres of power and act as a watchdog against any abuses of power, is by definition biased. For the right, the media is not an avenue for honest reflection but is a portal for reflecting their position. Anything that does not conform with this vision (even if it is the truth) is biased.

The question arises how do responsible citizens rid society of this meme. This is a difficult question. Once in the minds of individuals the right wing meme may be difficult to remove. In some cases (notably Murdoch paper columnists) the condition may be incurable. But there's hope. Fundamentally, we are all thinking human beings and for the most part moral. The consequences of the "right wing meme" (such as the ongoing conflict in Iraq) are ever slowly registering in the minds of the citizens. Sooner or later, this meme will be weeded out with more intellectually robust and honest memes taking its place. For the moment, societies are stuck with it.

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