Internet Meme

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Definition

An internet meme is a humorous idea, image, or piece of content that is transmitted from person to person online via the internet, often through Social Media platforms, forums, and other online communities. Memes are typically lighthearted, playful, and can be shared, modified, and adapted by others.

Etymology

The term “meme” was coined by evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins in his 1976 book “The Selfish Gene”. Dawkins proposed that memes were equivalent to genes, but applied to ideas, behaviors, or styles that are transmitted from person to person within a culture. The concept gained widespread popularity after the rise of the internet and Social Media.

Types of Memes

1. Humorous Memes

Humorous memes often feature humorously rendered images or phrases that poke fun at everyday situations, societal norms, or common human experiences. They can be sarcastic, ironic, or absurdist in nature.

Examples:

  • “All Your Base Are Belong To Us” (a reference to the video game Minecraft)
  • “I can has cheezburger?” (a popular meme featuring a cat with a caption written in the style of a 1950s diner menu)

2. Inflammatory Memes

Inflammatory memes often feature images or phrases that are intended to provoke strong emotions, such as outrage, anger, or disdain. They can be used to mock or ridicule individuals, groups, or institutions.

Examples:

  • “Gorilla Squirrel” (a meme featuring a cartoon gorilla and squirrel)
  • “Trumpy 2020” (a meme featuring Donald Trump’s face with the words “I’m a hoarder” written above him)

3. Nostalgic Memes

Nostalgic memes often feature images or phrases that evoke fond memories of childhood, nostalgia for past events or eras, or expressions of sentimentality.

Examples:

  • “Y2K” (a meme referencing the supposed impending doom of the year 2000)
  • “Tater Tot Hotdish” (a meme featuring a photograph of a casserole dish)

Characteristics

1. Short-Range Transmission

Memes are often transmitted rapidly and widely, as they can be easily shared and modified by others online.

Examples:

  • Memes can spread quickly on Social Media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook
  • Online communities and forums can also facilitate the rapid dissemination of memes

2. High Retention

Memes tend to retain a high level of relevance and appeal over time, as they are often lighthearted and playful.

Examples:

  • Memes can become iconic and enduring, such as “Distracted Boyfriend” (a meme featuring a cartoon boyfriend with his eyes fixed on another woman)
  • Memes can also evoke strong emotions and reactions, making them memorable and impactful

Impact on Society

1. Cultural Significance

Memes have become an integral part of Internet Culture and society.

Examples:

  • Memes have influenced mainstream media and popular culture
  • Memes can be used to comment on social issues, politics, and current events

2. Social Commentary

Memes often serve as a form of social commentary or satire.

Examples:

  • Memes can critique societal norms, politics, and cultural values
  • Memes can also poke fun at hypocrisy, inequality, or injustice

Conclusion

Internet memes have become an essential aspect of online communication and culture. They offer a unique way for people to express themselves, share ideas, and connect with others. While memes can be humorous, inflammatory, or nostalgic, they also serve as a platform for social commentary and cultural critique. As the internet continues to evolve and grow, it is likely that memes will remain an integral part of online culture.

References

  • Dawkins, R. (1976). The Selfish Gene.
  • Kotler, P., & Keller, K. L. (2013). Marketing Management: An Integrated Approach.
  • Rubin, J., & Ellis, S. A. (2008). Memes and Social Media. Journal of Communication Studies.