Case #51: Video

[19centconstable]

[George sits at the small table in his room, and holds a pile of papers in his hands, like a newscaster.]

I seem to have spent the recent weekend writing jokes for a vaudeville act. I can't say that I understand them now that I have come back to myself.

Is anyone aware: what is the "deal" with air-plane food?

Comments

[19centconstable]

It is funny, isn't it, how everyone can know something but no one knows who knew it first.

[zeitgeists]

Very funny, if by funny you mean interesting. Are you familiar with the concept of a "meme" at all?

[19centconstable]

I'm sure it could be both.

No, I'm afraid I'm not. What is it?

[plays]

A meme is an idea that spreads from person to person, via text, word of mouth, rituals, any media you could probably imagine really. Sometimes, ideas spread by memes to the extent that their origin becomes completely obscured; it seems like the idea was always present, instead. There's no telling who sparked it.

Where are you from, stranger?

[19centconstable]

I'm from Canada. 1898.

Do you know who first called these ideas memes?

[zeitgeists]

Oh, I don't believe the concept had quite developed during your time. [And a giggle.] Richard Dawkins is the man to blame, I believe! He wrote a book on evolutionary principles and coined the word for use there. It's derived from the Greek language, actually, not just pulled out of thin air.

[19centconstable]

He ought to be glad that his involvement in things hasn't become obscured, at least.

[zeitgeists]

That would be an amusing twist, wouldn't it?

Have you got a name?

[19centconstable]

Yes, of course. Constable George Crabtree, at your service.

[plays]

Constable? Cute. Where are you from?

[19centconstable]

I don't see what's cute about it, but Toronto. Canada.

[plays]

Well, I'm assuming you're the honest, idealistic type, I suppose. That's adorable! Not that I'd judge you for being corrupt and jaded, but I'd pick another adjective.