But in recent months, interest has surged in so-called wholesome memes, which aim to promote earnest messages of empowerment. There are now hundreds spreading across Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, Instagram and Reddit, whose "Wholesome Memes" forum has attracted more than half a million subscribers since its September launch.
I like to think that as a society, we are losing their taste for political bullying and labeling that reduces people to faceless others. This strategy is not only mean-spirited, it leaves us isolated, anxious and fearful. This runs counter to our fundamental goal as human-- to be connected to others. The positive emotions we get through affiliation and social connection, make us more creative, open-minded and productive, not to mention more fun to be around. If you see a positive meme, share it. You'll be doing the world a favor.