The meme-ing of folklore
Article Abstract:
Folklore can be defined as an evolutionary process, similar to the process defined in genetics by the notion of the meme. Geneticists believe that evolution, which occurs when certain memes reproduce while others die, helps creatures to survive in a certain place or time, but that evolutionary changes are not necessarily progressive. In a similar way, folklore can be seen as consisting of practices which were complementary to survival at a specific time, but which were not necessarily better than modern ones, or even good in their day.
Publication Name: Journal of Folklore Research
Subject: Anthropology/archeology/folklore
ISSN: 0737-7037
Year: 1996
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Folklore and science: inflections of "folk" in cognitive research
Article Abstract:
The relation between folklore studies and cognitive scientific research can be either an antagonistic or a complementary one. Oftentimes, folklore has been used in contrast to the research of scientists, often seen as what science needs to overcome in order to be successful. However, the study of folklore can function as a corrective to the attitudes of science, and can offer a distinct and useful viewpoint for comparing the theories and practices of the scientific community.
Publication Name: Journal of Folklore Research
Subject: Anthropology/archeology/folklore
ISSN: 0737-7037
Year: 1996
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Definitions of folklore
Article Abstract:
A series of definitions of the term folklore is given, and researchers into the field give their appraisals of what the term means. Definitions of the term include the study of myths, stories, legends, folkways such as dances, crafts, songs, and recipes, and the patterns of living and habitation. Folklore is often considered a humble study, but it can also reveal the heights of achievement as represented by men and women in their daily lives.
Publication Name: Journal of Folklore Research
Subject: Anthropology/archeology/folklore
ISSN: 0737-7037
Year: 1996
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