Toward A Model of Meme Diffusion (M³D)

An approach to modeling meme diffusion is proposed, drawing on insights from evolutionary theory, information theory, meme theory, frame analysis, general systems theory, social identity theory, communicative competence theory, narrative rationality theory, social network analysis, and diffusion of innovation theory. The model framework proposes that memes compete at multiple levels to occupy information niches. The purpose of this synthesis is to provide a heuristic framework for organizing manifold investigations into the roles that new media are playing in the diffusion of ideas in cyberspace and real space. The result is an outline of a multilevel model of meme diffusion (M3D) that seeks to integrate these theories and to stimulate new theory development in the fields of big data and new media.