The origin of the meme dates back to 1976 when evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins gave the name to the “small units of culture that spread from person to person by copying or imitation,”

“Relatable memes” are characterized by their ability to trigger a moment of identification in the viewer, one that creates a feeling of “sameness”, expressed in statements such as “This is literally me!”, “Same” or “Relatable”. 

three types of connections that can be forged through meme-sharing: bonding over a shared interest such as movies, sports, and more; bonding over an experience or circumstance; or bonding over a feeling or personal sentiment. 

Sharing emotional states is the act of connecting with those who share the same “feeling rules”, as renowned sociologist Arlie Hochschild calls it. More often than not, these emotional states are experienced in private moments, and by bonding over shared feeling rules people are cultivating a sense of solidarity in the very human experience of feeling.

the inherently comedic nature of memes lends itself well to lightheartedness, which can mask the sensitive emotions and complex empathy being forged.

These memes extend the possibility for establishing these kinds of bonds with people beyond our loved ones and friends.

It’s worth acknowledging that as much as memes can foster belonging, they can also do so at the expense of others. It’s too easy to punch down and propagate harmful narratives. And some online groups trade memes that perpetuate authoritarianism, hate, or bigotry.

Conspiracy and political ideology are a powerful form of community, and often one of the main reasons people are *actually* involved in them.

“Comedy exposes hypocrisy, builds bridges, tells the truth like no other, speaks the unmentionable, punctures vanity, challenges falsehoods, and skewers prejudices; creates community and solidarity.”