Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition — Clean two-panel meme comparing vaping with vapor clouds labeled 'Reject Modernity' to traditional cigarette smoking

Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition

2020formatactive

Published March 10, 2026

Also known as: Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition Meme · RMET

A meme format used to contrast modern and traditional approaches, often humorously suggesting a return to older ways.

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Overview

The reject modernity embrace tradition format uses images or text to contrast modern approaches with traditional alternatives, often presented as a binary choice.

The format emerged as online spaces began using it to compare historical and contemporary approaches, with varying levels of sincerity.

Origin & Background

Platform
4chan/Twitter
Creator
Anonymous users
Date
2020

Emerged from internet circles comparing modernity with traditional values

How It Spread

The "reject modernity embrace tradition" format spread as a meme template comparing modern and traditional approaches. The format became popular for both sincere and ironic uses, with creators applying it to various contexts.

The meme spread across 4chan, Twitter, Reddit, and TikTok, becoming a versatile format. It's used for everything from genuine philosophical comparison to absurdist humor.

Platforms

4chanTwitterRedditTikTokYouTube

Timeline

2020

Meme format emerges and gains popularity

2021

Peak usage across multiple platforms

2022-01-01

Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition reached mainstream popularity and media coverage

2023-01-01

Brands and companies started using Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition in marketing

2024

Remains active format in meme culture

2025-01-01

Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition is still actively used and shared across platforms

View on Google Trends

How to Use This Meme

Create side-by-side comparisons of modern and traditional approaches, using the "reject X embrace Y" framework. Use it ironically or sincerely.

1

Find the Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition template on Imgflip or a similar meme generator

2

Think of a funny or relatable caption that fits the format

3

Add your text to the template using the meme generator

4

Share your creation on social media or in group chats

Create Your Own

Cultural Impact

The meme represents ongoing cultural conversations about progress, tradition, and modernity. It shows how online spaces engage with philosophical questions through meme formats.

Fun Facts

Highly versatile format with numerous applications

Used both sincerely and ironically

Often features humorous extremes

Popular across political and cultural divides

Stays actively used in contemporary meme culture

The Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition meme has been shared millions of times across social media

You can create your own Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition meme using free tools like Imgflip

Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition first appeared in 2020

The meme is still remixed and adapted by creators

Brands and marketers have used Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition in their campaigns

The meme is still remixed and adapted by creators

Derivatives & Variations

Extreme versions with absurdist contrasts

A variation of Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition

(2020)

Political versions comparing ideologies

A variation of Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition

(2020)

Lifestyle comparison variations

A variation of Reject Modernity Embrace Tradition

(2020)

Frequently Asked Questions