Page "Terror management theory" Paragraph 43

TMT theorists argue that MMM cannot describe why different sets of meaning are preferred for a symbol by different people, and that while they may exist, " different concrete ) types of meaning have different psychological functions ".

For example, MMM theorists argue that all types of meaning are basically equal, and yet one could not compare the likelihood of defensive responses resulting from exposure to a deck of cards containing black hearts with something like the September 11 attacks.

TMT theorists argue, essentially, that unless something is an important element of a person ’ s anxiety-buffering worldview or self-esteem, it will not require broad meaning maintenance.