Memes have become a ubiquitous part of online culture. But what exactly is a meme? According to Merriam‑Webster, a meme is “an amusing or interesting item (such as a picture or video) that is spread widely online.” The evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins originally coined the term in his 1976 book The Selfish Gene, describing a meme as a unit of cultural transmission – an idea or behaviour that spreads from person to person through imitation.
While Dawkins introduced the concept, the term Internet meme was later popularized by Mike Godwin. In the digital age, a meme refers to any cultural item that spreads across the Internet, primarily through social media platforms. Memes can take many forms, including images, videos, GIFs and catchphrases. Newer genres like “dank” or “surrealist” memes show how the medium is continually evolving.
Key Characteristics
Internet memes share several distinctive traits. They tend to be parodied and remixed – a process where the original idea is imitated in a new context or altered through creative reproduction. Memes also rely heavily on intertextuality, blending references from different cultural sources to create humour or commentary. Their viral nature allows them to spread rapidly through networks of users, and their content constantly evolves as people adapt them for different audiences.
Why Memes Matter
Memes are more than throwaway jokes. They reflect the way ideas spread in the digital age and offer a glimpse into shared cultural values. Many people use memes simply for entertainment and humour – a way to unwind after a long day or bond with friends. Memes are easy to create and share, making them a convenient medium for communication. They can also serve as a coping mechanism, allowing us to deal with stressful situations through laughter. As the SMU Journal explains, memes provide a “safe space for communication” where people can relate to each other’s experiences.
Understanding the basics of memes helps us appreciate their cultural significance. In the next sections of this blog, we’ll explore how Canadian memes draw on national identity and how memes influence society at large.
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