Like Little Children
Communication is a fundamental aspect of human interaction, and the way we communicate with others can have a profound impact on our relationships, both personal and professional. Our communication styles are influenced by a variety of factors, including our personality, culture, and life experiences. One framework that can help us understand these influences is Spiral Dynamics, a model of human development that describes the evolution of value systems and worldviews.
In this article, we will explore how the different levels of consciousness, or “memes,” described in Spiral Dynamics can shape our communication styles. We will examine the characteristics of each meme, from the instinct-driven beige meme to the relativistic green meme, and consider how they may manifest in our interactions with others. Finally, we will discuss the emergence of the second-tier yellow meme and its potential to transcend the limitations of the first tier and lead us towards a more integrated and holistic way of communicating and relating to one another.
The Role of Consciousness in Communication Styles
The level of consciousness, as described by Spiral Dynamics, can significantly influence how people communicate and maintain their communication style. Each value meme, or level of consciousness, has its unique characteristics that shape the way individuals interact with others.
Beige Meme: Instinct-Driven Communication
At the lowest meme, beige, communication is driven by mere instinct. This style of communication can be primitive and pure, focusing on basic survival needs. For example, a baby crying for food or attention is an expression of the beige meme. However, this instinctual communication can also be dangerous or even cruel at times, as it lacks the empathy and understanding that come with higher levels of consciousness.
Purple Meme: Tribal Mindset and Kinship
The purple meme is characterized by a tribal mindset, where kinship and belonging to a group are paramount. Communication at this level revolves around maintaining relationships with those closest to you, such as family and friends. Dunbar’s number, which suggests that humans can comfortably maintain stable relationships with around 150 people, is often associated with the purple meme.
An example of purple meme communication would be a close-knit community gathering to celebrate a festival or ritual together, strengthening their bonds through shared experiences and traditions.
Red Meme: Admiration for Charismatic Leaders
In the red meme, communication is often driven by admiration or worship for charismatic leaders. As civilizations began to grow and expand, this mentality became a key component in maintaining order and cohesion. People at this level of consciousness are drawn to powerful, confident figures who can provide direction and purpose.
Throughout history, many societies have been shaped by red meme communication, with people rallying around charismatic leaders such as political figures, religious icons, or even celebrities. In modern times, this can manifest as a strong loyalty to a particular leader, organization, or ideology.
Blue Meme: Institutionalized Relationships
At the blue meme, relationships and communication become institutionalized. People at this level of consciousness adhere to strict hierarchies, rules, and codes of conduct. Abstract concepts such as religious doctrines, political ideologies, and moral values form the basis of communication and relationships.
An example of blue meme communication would be a military organization, where rank, protocol, and a clear chain of command dictate interactions between individuals. In this context, people may be willing to live and die for their beliefs, as they are deeply ingrained in their identity and sense of purpose.
Orange Meme: Economic Materialism and Win-Win Deals
The orange meme is associated with modern economic materialism and a focus on win-win transactions. Communication at this level is more sophisticated and driven by the pursuit of mutual benefit. People at this stage of consciousness view relationships as practical and somewhat superficial, based on the principle of “I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine.”
In the business world, orange meme communication is prevalent, with companies and individuals forming partnerships and alliances based on shared interests and goals. This has led to unprecedented levels of collaboration and prosperity, as people from diverse backgrounds can work together towards common objectives.
However, the orange meme also has its vulnerabilities. When relationships are based solely on mutual benefit, they can quickly deteriorate if one party feels that the arrangement is no longer favorable. This can lead to a sense of instability and a constant need to reassess and renegotiate relationships.
Green Meme: Addressing Vulnerabilities and Promoting Diversity
The green meme emerges as a response to the vulnerabilities of the orange meme, focusing on addressing inequalities, promoting diversity, and fostering a sense of inclusion. Communication at this level is more principle-based, with an emphasis on understanding and empathizing with others, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Non-profit organizations and volunteer groups are often expressions of the green meme, as they work towards addressing social and environmental issues without the expectation of material gain. The green meme also encourages open dialogue and the sharing of diverse perspectives, believing that this leads to a more harmonious and equitable society.
The Ideal Goal and Limitations of the Green Meme
While the green meme represents a significant step forward in terms of addressing the vulnerabilities of previous memes, it is not without its own limitations. The green meme can sometimes be characterized by a sense of moral superiority and a tendency to blame others for societal problems.
This “mean green meme” can lead to a form of relativism that, while claiming to be inclusive, can paradoxically exclude those who do not share its values. This can result in a kind of self-deception, where individuals believe they are open and loving towards all, but in reality, are only accepting of those who conform to their worldview.
Transcending the First Tier: The Emergence of the Yellow Meme
To move beyond the limitations of the green meme and the entire first tier of consciousness, a leap is required. This leap involves the emergence of the second tier, starting with the yellow meme. The yellow meme represents a more integrated and holistic approach to communication and relationships, drawing upon the strengths of each previous meme while transcending their limitations.
At the yellow level of consciousness, individuals embrace a form of “sophisticated instinct,” or spontaneity, that allows them to adapt to different situations and contexts with ease. This is reminiscent of the pure, instinctual nature of the beige meme, but tempered with the wisdom and understanding gained from the experiences of the other memes.
In many ways, the yellow meme invites us to become like little children again, as Jesus suggests in the Gospel of Matthew; “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3).
This does not mean regressing to a state of naivety or ignorance, but rather approaching life with a sense of openness, curiosity, and wonder, free from the constraints and prejudices of the lower memes.
Like Little Children
By understanding the different levels of consciousness and their influence on communication styles, we can work towards more effective and harmonious relationships with others. The journey through the first tier memes, from beige to green, offers valuable lessons and insights into the complexities of human interaction.
However, it is the emergence of the second tier, starting with the yellow meme, that holds the key to transcending the limitations of the first tier and achieving a more integrated and holistic way of being. By embracing the spontaneity and openness of little children, while also drawing upon the wisdom and understanding gained from our experiences, we can create a world where communication is based on mutual understanding, respect, and compassion.
As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly interconnected world, the insights offered by Spiral Dynamics can serve as a valuable guide, helping us to build bridges across differences and work towards a more harmonious and inclusive future for all.
Image by wal_172619
