Internet Memes and Society: Social, Cultural and Political Contexts

This talk is about a recently published book on memes which provides a solid, encompassing definition of internet memes, exploring both the common features of memes around the globe and their particular regional traits. It identifies and explains the roles that these viral texts play in internet communication. It looks at cultural, social and political implications; significance for self-representation and identity formation; promotion of alternative opinion or trending interpretation; and subversive and resistant power in relation to professional media, propaganda, and political campaigning. It also offers unique comparative case studies of internet memes in Russia and the United States.

Dr. Anastasia Denisova is a Lecturer in Journalism at CAMRI, University of Westminster. Prior to her academic career, she was working as a reporter and international editor for a national broadcaster, and as the editor and columnist for various magazines.