1.1 The importance of meme culture in the digital age

Meme culture has become the heartbeat of the internet's social landscape. These viral phenomena, which manifest as images, videos, or texts, often infused with humor and wit, are not merely for entertainment; they are a form of digital language that transcends borders and connects communities. Memes have evolved from simple online jokes to powerful tools of social commentary, political satire, and even economic impact. They encapsulate the collective consciousness of the digital populace, reflecting and shaping societal trends and ideologies. In essence, memes have become a new currency of cultural capital in the digital age, with the power to influence markets, elections, and public opinion.