To what extent does meme substitute gene

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In summary, organisms can inherit helpful traits through genes or learned behaviors. The passing on of these traits contributes to the survival and flourishing of many species. However, the concept of memes, or learned behaviors, can also play a role in the creation of adapted species, potentially replacing the role of genes in natural selection. This has been observed in social animals like humans, ants, and bees. Twin studies have also shown the impact of both genes and learned behaviors on human behavior.
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24forChromium
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A specie of organisms can inherit traits to its next generation through gene. For example, leaf-cutter ants' ancestors passed their instinct of leaf-cutting to its offspring via gene.

In the case of organisms capable of learning, such as crows, certain traits can be passed through generations by learning and imitation. For example, the ability to eat poisonous toads' livers.

The inheritance of helpful gene accounts for the flourishing of many species, because those with neither helpful genes nor acquired skills are less likely to reproduce successfully. However, if an organism does not have good genes but compensate this with acquired skills (the skill and its acquisition being generally referred to as "meme") the probability of this individual not reproducing successfully will decrease. So, to what extent may meme replace gene in the creation of adapted species?

EDIT:
a more concrete example:
suppose a group of organisms, say human beings, live in an earthquake prone area. Earthquakes usually kill off those who does not know to duck and cover instinctively, selecting these to be the parents of the next generation, but being human, these organisms soon passed the knowledge of duck and cover around, so even those who do not instinctively know to duck and cover can have a decent chance of survival. Will this slow down the selection of the instinctive ducking gene? (I suppose it has too) If yes, to what extent is this effect expected to continue?
 
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You're asking if Selection works for behavior in animals - the answer is yes. Not learned behavior - 'hardwired' behavior, which includes the ability to learn. The ability of ant species to work at different tasks by age-class as the individual ages is that kind of a trait. A meme is defined for human behavior term largely, but is the result of our hypersocial behavior in concert with very large brains. Memes exist because we actually evolve new behaviors in a social sense. Behavior does not necessarily alter inheritable traits. Epigenetics is a kind of separate topic.

There is an entire book about evolution of social behaviors, in humans and other animals: The Social Conquest of Earth by E. O. Wilson - largely talks about animals that are extremely social - humans, ants and some others like bees.

The answer to your question is that memes are learned and passed on that way. An interesting thing to try a google for : twin studies
One hit: http://msutwinstudies.com/why-twin-studies/
 

1. To what extent do memes impact human behavior?

Memes can have a significant impact on human behavior, as they are often used to convey and spread ideas, beliefs, and behaviors. They can influence how people think, act, and communicate with others.

2. Can memes replace genes in shaping our evolution?

Memes and genes play different roles in shaping our evolution. While genes are responsible for physical traits and characteristics, memes are cultural units that can influence our behavior and beliefs. While memes may have an impact on our evolution, genes will always play a crucial role.

3. What is the relationship between memes and genes?

The relationship between memes and genes is complex. Genes provide the foundation for our physical characteristics, while memes can shape our behavior and beliefs. Memes can also influence which genes are passed down through cultural practices such as marriage and family traditions.

4. Can memes be considered a form of cultural evolution?

Yes, memes can be seen as a form of cultural evolution, as they are passed down and evolve through cultural practices and communication. Memes can also spread and change rapidly, similar to how genetic traits can evolve over time.

5. Are memes more powerful than genes in shaping our society?

Memes and genes both play important roles in shaping our society. While memes can have a significant impact on our behavior and beliefs, genes also play a crucial role in determining our physical traits and health. It is difficult to determine which is more powerful, as both have significant influences on our society.

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