Memes may often be lighthearted graphics and jokes, but sometimes they represent something deeper, as a "succinct and poignant storyteller about our shared assumptions about people and society during these uncertain times." As for uncertain times, COVID-19 certainly fits the bill. As schools, businesses, and society adapted in light of the pandemic, individuals searched for respites of connection and communication. And in the 21st-century, what better outlet to turn to than internet memes. Dr. Heidi A. Campbell created Social Distancing in the Time of Memes to record and study "the dominant stories told about social distancing," within this medium. Three central themes about social distancing emerged from the project: its effect on social behavior, impact on religious practices, and reliance on the (often pre-existing) use of humor as a coping mechanism. Readers can view collection highlights on the website and also download the project as an e-book in PDF or EPUB form. Plus, the site links to a Social Distancing Memes Database app and Facebook page. The project was funded by the Melbern G. Glasscock Center for Humanities Research based at Texas A&M University.
Comments