Slate Technology What Next: TBD | 2025: The Meme of the Year
Dec 28, 2025
In a fascinating conversation, Kate Lindsay, host of Slate’s ICYMI podcast and a keen observer of online trends, dives into the ever-evolving world of memes. She explores how memes have transformed from simple images to complex cultural moments. Kate recounts the viral Coldplay kiss-cam scandal, revealing how it sparked discussions on privacy and class tensions. She reflects on the ethics of online mob justice and shares insights on future meme trends, predicting a shift towards algorithmic and niche communities.
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Memes Evolved Beyond Static Images
- Memes have shifted from static images to moments shaped by video and audio.
- Kate Lindsay defines memes broadly as anything that took over the internet.
Coldplay Kiss-Cam Became A Viral Investigation
- The Coldplay kiss-cam clip became a rapid internet moment after being posted online.
- Within 24 hours the couple was identified and their jobs and affair were exposed.
Social Media Acts As A Surveillance System
- The meme showed how social media functions as a de facto surveillance state.
- Kate Lindsay says there's little privacy left and people no longer hesitate to post others without consent.