Social media memes and political participation of Indian youth

Abstract

Humor has historically served as a powerful antidote to tyranny, creating spaces for critique and resistance. In the digital era, internet memes have become a potent form of political satire, especially in India, where political memes are increasingly influential as tools for engagement. These memes enable individuals, particularly youth, to engage in political discourse in a light-hearted yet impactful way. This research investigates the power of political memes in India to influence public opinion, shape youth beliefs about political entities and policies, and foster, if not sometimes polarize public discourse. Additionally, it explores the dynamics of political memes in online communities, where they appeal to young, tech-savvy individuals who are both consumers and creators of such content. The findings illuminate how memes can reinforce biases while also providing an alternative to mainstream media narratives, ultimately reshaping the public's political engagement.