Phylomemetics: Analyzing Evolution Beyond Genes
Author Information
Author(s): Howe Christopher J., Windram Heather F.
Primary Institution: University of Cambridge
Hypothesis
Can phylogenetic methods be applied to non-genetic elements like manuscripts and languages?
Conclusion
Phylogenetic analysis can effectively reconstruct the history of non-genetic elements, such as texts and languages, similar to how it is used in biological data.
Supporting Evidence
- Phylogenetic methods have been successfully applied to analyze the evolution of languages and cultural artifacts.
- Studies show that phylogenetic analysis can reveal the copying history of manuscripts.
- Phylogenetic analysis of texts often agrees with traditional scholarship.
Takeaway
This study shows that we can use the same methods scientists use to study genes to understand how things like stories and languages change over time.
Methodology
The study reviews the application of phylogenetic methods to analyze the evolution of manuscripts, languages, and cultural artifacts.
Limitations
The approach may not adequately address issues of contamination in manuscript copying.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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