Exploring the Utility of Memes for U.S. Government Influence Campaigns

Abstract

The term meme was coined in 1976 by Richard Dawkins to explore the ways in which ideas spread between people. With the introduction of the internet, the term has evolved to refer to culturally resonant materiala funny picture, an amusing video, a rallying hashtagspread online, primarily via social media. This CNA self-initiated exploratory study examines memes and the role that memetic engagement can play in U.S. government (USG) influence campaigns. We define meme as a culturally resonant item easily shared or spread online, and develop an epidemiological model of inoculate / infect / treat to classify and analyze ways in which memes have been effectively used in the online information environment. Further, drawing from our discussions with subject matter experts, we make preliminary observations and identify areas for future research on the ways that memes and memetic engagement may be used as part of USG influence campaigns.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 2018
Accession Number
AD1052398

Entities

People

  • Kate Hammerberg
  • Megan K. Mcbride
  • Vera Zakem

Organizations

  • Center for Naval Analyses

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Cyber
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Engineered Resilient Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Behavioral Sciences
  • Department Of Defense
  • Department Of State
  • Fake News
  • Governments
  • Information Operations
  • National Politics
  • Psychological Operations
  • Psychology
  • Social Media
  • Societies
  • Terrorism
  • Terrorists
  • United States
  • United States Government
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Geospatial Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence Analytics
  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Military Logistics and Supply Chain Management