Core Viewpoint - The phenomenon of internet memes, or "网梗," reflects the rapid evolution of language and social dynamics in the digital age, serving as both a social tool and a mirror of contemporary societal emotions [1][4]. Group 1: Characteristics of Internet Memes - Internet memes are characterized by "semantic compression," allowing complex emotions and societal issues to be distilled into easily memorable and replicable symbols [1][2]. - The emergence of certain memes is often linked to specific social sentiments, such as the term "内卷," which encapsulates the intense competition and anxiety prevalent in modern society [1][2]. - User-generated content is the driving force behind meme propagation, with variations of phrases like "thank you" being creatively adapted into numerous forms, ensuring the meme's longevity [1][2]. Group 2: Cultural and Social Implications - Memes often carry a "gatekeeping" aspect of subculture, with different generations using unique expressions to foster group identity, such as "尊嘟假嘟" among Gen Z and "破防了" among millennials [2][4]. - The multi-modal nature of meme dissemination, combining images, videos, and music, enhances the efficiency of their spread and allows for the evolution of meanings over time [2][3]. - The viral nature of memes creates a "snowball effect," where psychological mechanisms like imitation and social resonance drive widespread participation in meme culture [3][4]. Group 3: Concerns and Recommendations - The over-reliance on memes may lead to a "hollowing out" of language, diminishing the depth of expression and thought, particularly among youth [3][4]. - There is a growing concern about the impact of derogatory terms within memes on the value systems of adolescents, necessitating a response from educational institutions [4]. - To combat the impoverishment of language, it is suggested that there should be a creative integration of memes with mainstream culture, alongside the establishment of ethical guidelines for meme creation [4].