When searching for memes to study, I've used a number of strategies. These include searching Google Images as well as utilizing meme websites to find memes related to my topic. I've also done a standard Google search which lead to some sites and posts specifically centered around memes having to do with my topic. When selecting memes to analyze, I make sure that they are fairly narrowly focused on my topic of Islamophobia. Islamophobia is defined as "unfounded hostility towards
Islam and a fear or dislike of all or most
Muslims" (Samari, 2016). Memes that focus on Islamophobia allow me to look into the different ways that it is viewed, and different ways that it manifests itself in the world, specifically through the minds of Muslims.
Through analysis of the four memes in my current sample, combined with the background knowledge that I've developed of Islam, I can draw a few conclusions. The members of the religion of Islam draw their meaning from Allah, and the Five Pillars of Islam that they are instructed to carry out. They refer to the Quran in order to obtain direction in their lives, and they have a goal of people a kind, tolerant group. This is why they want to end the violent stereotypes that are often spread about them. The memes convey a message of tolerance, as well as a desire for people to gain a better understanding of Islam before forming an opinion on Muslims based on the media or other people. The type of humor used in these memes is a mix of satire and sarcasm. This is used by the creators of the memes in an effort to make Islamophobic views appear foolish and undesirable.
In general, the memes present Islam as a religion that is often misunderstood, and mislabeled as violent. They highlight the Islamophobia that is present in our society today.
Reference:
Samari, G. (2016). Islamophobia and Public Health in the United States. American Journal of Public Health, 106(11), 1920-1925.
Through analysis of the four memes in my current sample, combined with the background knowledge that I've developed of Islam, I can draw a few conclusions. The members of the religion of Islam draw their meaning from Allah, and the Five Pillars of Islam that they are instructed to carry out. They refer to the Quran in order to obtain direction in their lives, and they have a goal of people a kind, tolerant group. This is why they want to end the violent stereotypes that are often spread about them. The memes convey a message of tolerance, as well as a desire for people to gain a better understanding of Islam before forming an opinion on Muslims based on the media or other people. The type of humor used in these memes is a mix of satire and sarcasm. This is used by the creators of the memes in an effort to make Islamophobic views appear foolish and undesirable.
In general, the memes present Islam as a religion that is often misunderstood, and mislabeled as violent. They highlight the Islamophobia that is present in our society today.
Reference:
Samari, G. (2016). Islamophobia and Public Health in the United States. American Journal of Public Health, 106(11), 1920-1925.
Good start, but please remember to provide a focused analysis of each new meme you add to your collection. Also can you clarify your specific study theme related to Islam in your next blogs?!
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