No one is claiming that a meme is a solid, much less biologically reproducing being. It is simply an idea that has caught on. Which memes stick around and which fade out, are sometimes referred to in evolution-speak with 'survival' and 'selection' but even though it is structurally similar, it does not involve genetics or biological reproduction.
Also, not every conclusion uses faith to get there. When a conclusion is reached using only available information, and only based on that info, faith is not involved.
As for religion being a part of our code, it is not. The ABILITY to believe in such things requiring faith, but not the need. Our imaginations are very complex and amazing. A concept that sounds really pleasant, and which the brain is able to 'make fit' to things, is sometimes taken to be a truth on faith (no real indicators or evidence) and will feel right to the new believer. We also though, have the ability to use reason and logic, to revise our beliefs with new information. That would be where educating oneself out of religion might come in, as well for as other faith-requiring beliefs (like horoscopes or new age crystals).
Memes do exist. They are real concepts though, not physical things. Just like memories exist, emotions exist, political ideologies exist, etc. They are not material, but real none the less.
Also, not every conclusion uses faith to get there. When a conclusion is reached using only available information, and only based on that info, faith is not involved.
As for religion being a part of our code, it is not. The ABILITY to believe in such things requiring faith, but not the need. Our imaginations are very complex and amazing. A concept that sounds really pleasant, and which the brain is able to 'make fit' to things, is sometimes taken to be a truth on faith (no real indicators or evidence) and will feel right to the new believer. We also though, have the ability to use reason and logic, to revise our beliefs with new information. That would be where educating oneself out of religion might come in, as well for as other faith-requiring beliefs (like horoscopes or new age crystals).
Memes do exist. They are real concepts though, not physical things. Just like memories exist, emotions exist, political ideologies exist, etc. They are not material, but real none the less.
I'm really shitty at giving kudos and rep. That's because I would be inconsistent in remembering to do them, and also I don't really want it to show if any favouritism is happening. Even worse would be inconsistencies causing false favouritisms to show. So, fuck it. Just assume that I've given you some good rep and a number of kudos, and everyone should be happy...
