Internet, Humor, and Nation in Latin America

This volume explores the role of humor in the Spanish- and Portuguese-language internet, highlighting how it influences democracy, civil society, and the production of meaning in everyday life. Case studies consider memes, video content, and new methodologies for studying the laughable on social media. Internet humor can create new means of public interaction and generate greater expectations of governmental accountability and democratic participation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 27 February 2024
Publisher: University Press of Florida

This groundbreaking volume offers a comprehensive Latin American perspective on the role of humor in the Spanish- and Portuguese-language internet, shedding light on its profound influence on the region's relationship with democracy and civil society. Through a series of insightful case studies, the book explores the production and circulation of online humor, examining how it shapes the production of meaning in everyday life.

The volume begins by delving into the realm of memes, analyzing how they have become powerful tools for political commentary and social critique in Latin America. Political cartoons in Mexico, for instance, have been used to satirize government corruption and criticize political figures. Similarly, imagery depicting the mismanagement of natural disasters in Puerto Rico has sparked public outrage and prompted calls for accountability.

Brazil is another focal point of the book, as contributors explore how memes are shared on WhatsApp by supporters of President Jair Bolsonaro. The Instagram account Barbie Fascionista, known for its satirical memes, has become a platform for political commentary and social criticism. The use of memes in Brazil highlights the power of digital media to mobilize and engage citizens, particularly younger generations.

In addition to memes, the volume also examines video content, including sketches by Argentinian comedian Guillermo Aquino, short-form material by Chilean vlogger Germán Garmendia, and a satirical YouTube column created by journalists in Colombia. These case studies showcase the diverse ways in which humor is used to address social and political issues in Latin America.

Contributors to the book offer innovative methodologies for studying the laughable on social media, including a model for analyzing fake Twitter accounts. This approach emphasizes the importance of critically examining the sources and intentions behind humorous digital content, as it can shape public opinion and influence political discourse.

Internet, Humor, and Nation in Latin America underscores the significance of paying close attention to humorous digital content as part of contemporary culture. The book demonstrates that internet humor can generate novel means of public interaction with the political and cultural spheres, fostering greater expectations of governmental accountability and democratic participation. By exploring the intersection of humor, digital media, and society, this volume provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of Latin American politics and culture.

The contributors to this volume are a diverse group of experts in the field, including academics, journalists, and digital media professionals. Their insights and perspectives offer a rich tapestry of perspectives on the role of humor in Latin America's digital landscape.

In conclusion, Internet, Humor, and Nation in Latin America is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and insightful perspective on the role of humor in the Spanish- and Portuguese-language internet. Through a series of case studies and innovative methodologies, the book demonstrates the profound influence of online humor on the region's relationship with democracy, civil society, and the production of meaning in everyday life. This volume is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of Latin American politics and culture in the digital age.

Weight: 474g
Dimension: 156 x 235 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781683404293