2012 was the year memes exploded into the public consciousness. Mainstream media websites covered “Binders Full of Women” as breathlessly as they did the presidential election itself. Within minutes of a notable cultural moment, multiple Tumblr blogs and Twitter accounts would pop up, bringing with them clever parodies and imperfect imposters alike. And yet, like a football to the groin on America’s Funniest Home Videos, the right meme (i.e. not “Binders Full of Women”) can still bring endless amounts of laughter. I still giggle like an excited Ron Swanson every time I see that cat reading the newspaper. HE THINKS HE’S PEOPLE.
Maske put together our best-of 2011 “Meme Watch” guide, and this year, the responsibility rests on my carpal tunnel-ridden fingers. SO: the following are 20 memes that began in 2012 that fit two crucial UPROXX standards: 1) they symbolize the year that was, and b) are still funny. Sorry, Kony 2012. It made sense at the time…
#20. Overly Attached Girlfriend
#18. What People Think I Do/What I Really Do
#16. Chandler Dances on Things
#14. Ridiculously Photogenic Guy/Ridiculously Photogenic Surgery Girl
#13. Pop Culture Hates Internet Explorer
#12. Inappropriate Timing Bill Clinton
#11. If You Watch It Backwards