Original scientific paper

https://doi.org/10.20901/ms.14.28.6

Meming up the Scandals: Internet Memes as Amplifiers of Scandals

Domagoj Bebić ; University of Zagreb, Faculty of Political Science
Antea Boko orcid.org/0000-0002-5881-3536 ; University North
Daniela Dolinar ; University North

Abstract

This research investigates the amplifying role of memes in political scandals. This study, therefore, begins with the hypothesis that political scandals originating from mainstream media extend to social networks through memes. Consequently, the duration and impact of a specific scandal are extended as it circulates within these online platforms. The case study examines three Croatian news portals – Večernji.hr, Index.hr, and Slobodnadalmacija.hr – and analyzes memes published on the Megatroll Split Facebook page in June 2022. Findings indicate that despite a smaller number of memes generated within a two-day timeframe, the Megatroll Split Facebook page received more user engagement than Večernji. hr, which published sixteen articles over eight days. This research confirms the significant role of memes in political scandals and underscores the need for further exploration in this area.

Keywords

Scandalization; political memes; political scandals; social media; political communication

Hrčak ID:

313185

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/313185

Publication date:

9.1.2024.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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