Everyone in some shape or form have seen memes whilst surfing online on the internet.
They are relatable, satirical or hilarious content shared on social media platforms or channels.
Memes vary from images, videos, text and GIFs.
The term was first used by biologist Richard Dawkins in his book “The Selfish Gene” published in 1976.
Memes have become a universal and effective way of communicating in a time where information online spreads at an astonishing pace.
They set a high creative standard for speed as they pay attention to what’s trending throughout the day.
Brands or some people can only do this regularly due to marketing and communication.
Those that use meme marketing successfully become a major hit with Gen Z consumers.
Memes are the leading marksmen of modern internet culture and content creation on multiple platforms.
At first, they let people express themselves through the mentioned ways.
They are often the first thing we see online and give us a few minutes of procrastination.
But did you know memes go beyond that?
Research has shown that it views modern methods of communication favorably.
Individuals develop a corporate identity through their language.
They are also means of self-expression, social influence and political subversion.
Paolo Gerbaudo, director of the Digital Culture Centre at London’s King’s College, says that memes are a ready made language.
The language of symbols and many situations are plates people can use to transmit content.
Memes dive into the collective consciousness of the internet and have been classified as Netlore or Digital Folklore.
They have an amazing way of assimilating a feeling or state of mind that stays with people.
Memes let people reflect on complex and mental health issues like desires and anxieties.
A minimal study showed that people with depression view depression-related memes as more relatable and shareable.
This means they can provide emotional support and connect emotionally.
Another study showed that memes trigger powerful responses to emotions.
In this case, it comes from the sharing of funny or gross videos that people share over the internet.
Memes tap into evergreen needs like satire, laughter and humour that unite people.
They do this by using unexpected juxtapositions as metaphors to laugh.
It is most evident when having the same humour or sharing a joke with a stranger.
The sharing and viral sensation of memes comes into play here which connects everyone as a whole group.
Last but not least, they play an important role in the viral nature of online content.
By creating shareable or relateable content,memes can be transformed into something a lot more interesting.
An image or video with a caption underneath or up top can be spread very quickly.
What do you make of this? DM us and let us know
