The line between politics and poasting has never been more blurry. Unpacking South Park’s “And it’s gone” meme in the context of Occupy Wall Street, and its comparison to the “Money printer go brrr” memes of today as a means of activism. From “The Withdrawal Issue”.,
The Blurry Line Between Politics and Memes: Unpacking South Park’s “And it’s gone” Meme
Introduction
In the world of social media and internet culture, memes have become a powerful tool for expressing ideas, opinions, and even political activism. One such meme that has gained significant traction in recent years is the “And it’s gone” meme from the popular TV show, South Park. This meme, along with the more recent “Money printer go brrr” meme, has been used to highlight various socio-political issues, particularly in relation to Occupy Wall Street and modern-day activism. In this article, we will delve deeper into the origins and significance of these memes, their connection to political movements, and the role they play in shaping online discourse.
The Origins of the “And it’s gone” Meme
The “And it’s gone” meme originated from a South Park episode titled “Margary”, in which the residents of the town invest their money in a bank, only to have it wiped out by the collapse of the financial system. The phrase “And it’s gone” is uttered by the banker, as he nonchalantly informs the devastated customers about the loss of their funds. This scene, with its profound commentary on the Wall Street crash and the subsequent economic recession, struck a chord with viewers.
Occupy Wall Street and the Memeification of Activism
Fast forward to 2011, when the Occupy Wall Street movement emerged as a response to economic inequality and corporate greed. Protesters took to the streets to voice their grievances, demanding accountability and fair distribution of wealth. It was during this time that the “And it’s gone” meme resurfaced, finding a new context within the Occupy movement. Activists used the meme as a form of visual protest, encapsulating the frustration and disillusionment felt by those affected by the financial crisis.
The Rise of the “Money Printer Go Brrr” Meme
In 2020, as governments around the world implemented unprecedented monetary policies to combat the COVID-19 pandemic-induced economic downturn, a new meme began to circulate: “Money printer go brrr”. This phrase, accompanied by images or videos depicting money being printed, became a symbol of critique against the perceived overuse of fiscal stimulus and the potential consequences of rampant money printing.
The Memes as a Means of Activism
Both the “And it’s gone” and “Money printer go brrr” memes serve as powerful tools for political commentary and activism. Memes, with their inherent ability to capture complex ideas in a concise and relatable manner, allow individuals to participate in political discourse without requiring extensive knowledge or expertise. They provide a medium through which people can express their frustrations, question authority, and rally support for causes they believe in.
Shaping Online Discourse and Beyond
The influence of memes on shaping online discourse cannot be underestimated. Memes have the potential to spread rapidly, reaching a wide audience across various social media platforms. They have the power to create a sense of community, unite individuals with shared ideologies, and contribute to the formation of public opinion. In an era dominated by information overload, memes offer a succinct, easily digestible form of communication that captures attention and resonates with viewers.
Conclusion
The “And it’s gone” meme from South Park, along with the more recent “Money printer go brrr” meme, exemplify the blurring line between politics and internet culture. These memes have played a significant role in highlighting socio-political issues, encapsulating collective frustrations, and mobilizing support for various causes. As online activism continues to evolve, memes are likely to remain a prominent tool for political expression and social change.
