How Memes Impact Culture

In the last couple of years, “memes” have evolved into a major way of communication. They can be found on different social media sites, such as Twitter, and re-uploaded on even more. A meme is a image, video, or piece of text that satirically exposes or critiques a situation. Society uses memes to expose real world problems such as racism and corrupt politicians or current events in the news, like United Airlines. Mainly, these pieces of satire are shared by people who agree with the message that the meme conveys.
The main use of memes found on the internet today is usually to taunt or make fun of something. Memes can also be used as propaganda for politicians or organizations. They bring a humorous atmosphere to otherwise serious situations and can help raise awareness for something. One of the most recent examples of this is the United Airlines scandal, where an Asian man was violently dragged off an overbooked flight.
Other times, the creation of a meme is simply to provide entertainment for the audience. One student, Alivia Hart ‘19 made a petition on Change.org to bring back the show Fetch! with Ruff Ruffman. She then proceeded to send the link to current President Donald Trump, previous President Barack Obama, and presidential candidate Ted Cruz. Another student, Madeline King ‘19, signed the petition as Ted Cruz. While this does not deal with a serious issue, except to someone who believes strongly in this cancelled PBS show, the absurdity of the act is humorous to those that are not in on the original joke.
Memes can give society a new culture to experience, or a new way to experience familiar culture. Due to the global aspect and reach of memes, it allows for the contribution of a large amount of people for all walks of life and experiences. Some of the most prominent memes originate from the side of Twitter nicknamed “Black People Twitter,” even though they are often uncredited.
“Oh, Black People Twitter, I love Black People Twitter. Those people are so funny,” the Associated Press’ Race and Ethnicity editor said in a lecture as a part of the George Mason Journalism and Media Conference. “I’ve considered contributing and making my own Melania Trump meme, but I’m too old. Leave it to the young people.”
From funny or sarcastic to serious, they be used to give different perspectives on subjects that are not easily grasped at first glance. In an internet-based society, memes help connect people through humor and shared point of views. They can even be used to publicize major events, such as protests that are taking place or even an upcoming holiday.