I don't have much to say about the specific examples of subliminal memes Jon comes up with, but I do have some general remarks we can discuss. This implies that memes operate at the 'limbic system' level of our brains rather than at a cortical level. At this place our non-verbal social interactions are processed, social emotions arise, associative memories are stored. Those are the processes carrying the most powerful memes. Clearly, this covers a whole area of social, developmental and clinical psychology, in none of which I have any skill.
Some memes are completely intelectual, like certain programming languages or mathematical tricks.
These may become connected to emotional structures in idividuals and passed on, but in their original form they are rather independent of non-verbal structures. They can be transmitted as well, especially by learning from friends and relatives during upbringing. However, many memes are linked to both levels. The emotional aspect, closely linked to the limbic system is a powerful driving force which influences the verbal aspect. As a rule, emotions outweigh reason in most cases, especially if there are no apparent benefits except emotional gratification.