Memes as Resistance, Valentina Pena
These memes present the issues around patriarchy today in a very raw and frustrated way. The first one uses sarcasm which in turn criticizes feminism by over simplifying the issue of patriarchy and as such is a defense against what is put forth as baseless charge against men. Also it puts forward how humor is used as a shield from serious analysis. Second one plays with the idea of confusion and also doubt in terms of issues like toxic masculinity and instead puts forward men’s issues at the fore front which in total does not present an accurate picture and is very much an emotion driven issue for those that feel left out or attacked.
The last blow out reaction picture shows how these discussions turn into outrage which in turn deters any true back and forth instead of a real conversation. In the perspective of Bell Hooks we see how patriarchy plays out in day to day culture through jokes, images and online reactions. Meme’s take on as a form of resistance because they put ideas out there fast, they challenge the status quo and turn private issues into public discussion. What may look like humor is in fact a reflection of on going issues related to power, gender and responsibility.
What’s Patriarchy?
Patriarchy is a structure which has for a very long time seen men and masculinity as the center of power which in turn shapes what we as a society deems as authority, strength, emotion, and value. Also it does not only affect women but also men which it forces into suppressing vulnerability, constant competition, and defining themselves through dominance.
That is what we see in the case of memes they bring out the roots of patriarchy in humor, anger, defensiveness and identity. What may appear as just an ordinary joke is in fact a small protest platform, which either puts forth resistance or resistance to it, post each share.
How can memes act as a form of resistance and advocacy?
According to Bell Hooks, patriarchy is upheld by media, language, and everyday thinking in addition to laws and institutions. Memes disrupt this process. Culture is a stage. Each meme plays in a bigger talk about power, gender, and responsibility.
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