Multi-channel Convolutional Neural Network for Precise Meme Classification

This paper proposes a multi-channel convolutional neural network (MC-CNN) for classifying memes and non-memes. Our architecture is trained and validated on a challenging dataset that includes non-meme formats with textual attributes, which are also circulated online but rarely accounted for in meme classification tasks. Alongside a transfer learning base, two additional channels capture low-level and fundamental features of memes that make them unique from other images with text. We contribute an approach which outperforms previous meme classifiers specifically in live data evaluation, and one that is better able to generalise ‘in the wild’. Our research aims to improve accurate collation of meme content to support continued research in meme content analysis, and meme-related sub-tasks such as harmful content detection.