Today, memes have become a focal point of online culture, shaping how people communicate and connect. From lighthearted messages to the darkest humor, memes have single-handedly carved out their own niche on the internet that is filled with creativity, social bonding, and controversy. Some people may argue that memes are bad for mental health, but one of the most important benefits of memes is the joy of laughter. In a modern society where stress and anxiety levels are higher than ever, a small break of laughter once in a while really can make a day better.
Memes can have more than one purpose. The most recognizable example of this is the “Distracted Boyfriend” meme, a regular stock photo turned into an international running joke. These memes were made to make people laugh, but they also tested how far you could go with them. By being used to represent a shift in interests or even political ideologies, these memes allow people from every walk of life to engage in a global conversation, bringing people closer together. However, memes could drive people apart.
Of course, like everything else, memes do have a downside. They spread misinformation, reinforce stereotypes, and can often be used for cyberbullying. Memes can spread misinformation about global issues, such as the severity of COVID-19, which was downplayed through memes all over the world. Also, they can be used to push hate speech and dark ideologies into the public eye. Since COVID-19 was first discovered, there’s been a widespread conspiracy theories that the virus came from China, and with the help of memes, this was only amplified. Despite the severity of the situation, it’s not entirely because of the memes. Generally, people should know how to differentiate the truth between memes and satirical nonsense; the information that is being digested is ultimately up to the interpretation of the consumer.
On the other hand, memes can be used as a state of societal commentary and as a call for change. Memes have been used to sway public opinion. Some examples include the 2020 election, the BLM movement, and the Me Too movement, which have all benefited massively from the use of memes. Its supporters say memes can encapsulate a clear message while also keeping things traditionally funny.
Memes make the internet a better place. They make people laugh and bond, strengthening online communities and bringing people together. While there are potential downsides, the positives far outweigh them. Ultimately, it is up to the consumer and the companies to mediate what is being consumed in an attempt to differentiate the good and bad. So, next time you share a meme, take it with a grain of salt, laugh, and appreciate the beauty of it.