You are invited to attend the WIU Department of Communication's 31st Annual Wayne N. Thompson Professor Lecture, "When Sharing Memes Backfires: The Role of Social Media Memes in Increasing Polarization," presented by Dr. Chris Carpenter, on October 25 at 3:45 p.m. in Horrabin Hall 1 or via Zoom at https://wiu.zoom.us/j/95425539498.

This presentation is free and open to the public and will describe his most recent research on how attempts to influence people about social issues by posting on social media may backfire. Dr. Carpenter's work suggests that there is a risk to sharing simplistic messages (like memes) that may cause those whom you wish to persuade to think less of you and your position. The lecture will provide a background on social media use, as well as suggest ways by which to increase social media messaging effectiveness.