To think this meme is pretty unpleasant?

[heyfrog]

I have a "friend" on Facebook who as well as believing in all the other conspiracy theories also believes COVID is a mass plot to control us etc. (This isn't really around COVID hence not putting it on that board). She's uploaded the attached pic tonight which I think is pretty offensive - I appreciate other people have different views to me, but this seems to imply that because I'd wear a mask this is comparable to Nazi supporters. AIBU to think she's gone a bit far with this one?

@user15368536798589

You think it's offensive so you're re-publishing it for more people to see?

She's posted it to argue against it. Completely different use.

It's horrible, but her view is not uncommon. The power of conspiracy theorists is scary.

The thing about these people is that they do think they're the clever ones; that they understand "the truth" and aren't falling for what "the mainstream media" are telling us.

I do find a lot of harking back to wartime stuff in their hyperbole as well. I think it's linked to ideas about "the good old days" and the world being taken over by so called left wing wokery. It's all muddled up in their heads.

I apologise for my use of the word meme - if I could edit things I'd replace it with the word picture. But I can't.

I also wondered if perhaps I was just over reacting but it doesn't seem like it. I've told her it's offensive. The reason I was hesitating is that yes she is a bit bonkers but has been I think driven to it by a toxic relationship that has been made even worse in lockdown. I feel sorry for her in many ways.

It seems very extreme. Does she have extreme views about other things?

I just think those people are beyond reasoning. But in a way, they are the victim too, to be sucked into a rabbit hole. So, I really don't want to call them offensive names. Hopefully, they will see sense soon, though I doubt it after watching all those that happening in US.

Denial is a powerful thing

www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/south-dakota-nurse-dying-covid-patients-dont-believe-coronavirus-real_n_5fb2d425c5b6aad41f72129d?ri18n=true

TrickorTreacle

Hmm yes the definition of a soon-to-be forgotten type of internet communication is much more important than genocide and propaganda.

I think she’s expressing a view, in a way that actually communicates a lot about what she believes.

Man alive, wrong wrong wrong!

Depending on who they were to me, I'd definitely take a mental note to disregard anything this person said from now on as they had shown themselves to be completely devoid of any common sense or empathy.

It's turned into this weird thing where just by nature of doing something sensible according to informed advice, you're accused of being a sheep, nazi or whatever. (Incredibly ironically of course as they're the ones who mindlessly follow weird ideologies) I suppose these types wouldn't want to look out when crossing the road, avoid eating raw chicken or put locks on their windows.

The bigger issue is why are we referring this as an internet 'meme'?

And the 'Totally Missing The Point' award goes to...

I’d find it funny, however people are easily offended these days

Comparing mask-wearers to Nazis. Hilarious.

OP, I'd put her on snooze so you don't see her posts for the next 30 days or maybe just unfollow her so you're still FB friends but you don't see her updates.

Because trying to protect the people around you by not spreading a virus is very similar to a genocidal ideology. Of course ....

The meme doesn't imply what you say it does.

Disgusting. I'd block.

I'd ask her to explain what she thinks the picture is supposed to mean.

And when she explains, ask her how she thinks that might come across to people who do wear masks, follow the rules etc.

Yes your friend has gone too far but she is not alone unfortunately.

Yes, that is the real big issue here - the usage of the word meme. That’s what we should focus on

I remember when Meme was used by Richard Dawkins in The Selfish Gene way before it was used for internet stuff.

It’s stupid. I assume she will be anti-vaxxer aswell 🙄
I am pregnant therefore wear a mask at all times to keep myself and baby safe (as well as others). I must be a nazi.

@Mychitchatdays

The meme doesn't imply what you say it does.

What does it imply then? It seems fairly obvious to me.

That’s awful. I’ve seen the same image without masks being used to celebrate the man not saluting the Nazi regime - which is fine. But this is just horrible. I would have to point out her revolting opinion, then block. At least it’s helpful in highlighting the people you need to avoid I guess.

What does it imply @Mychitchatdays?

Conspiracy theorists like to pretend that they're brave for going against the herd. It makes them feel special, poor idiots.

It’s truly awful. You are not wrong. And yes it is offensive.

That's offensive! I would call her out on it. She may be your friend, but it's silent majority that allow things to go unchecked.