Introduction

The Galaxy Brain meme, also known as Expanding Brain, is a multi-panel exploitable image series that humorously compares the perceived intelligence of a person based on their thoughts or expressions.

Background

The Expanding Brain meme typically features a series of images showing increasingly larger brains alongside various ideas or phrases. While it is often used to illustrate a hierarchy of intelligence, it is frequently applied ironically, suggesting that seemingly lesser ideas or expressions can be of greater value than those typically held in high regard. For instance, in conjunction with the term 'whomst,' the person using standard language is depicted with the smallest brain, while the one using the most convoluted variation, such as 'whomst'd've,' is shown with the largest brain.

How It Began

The meme traces its origins to the 'Whomst' meme, where various derivations of the word 'Who' were illustrated with increasingly sophisticated images of brains. A notable early example was shared on /r/dankmemes on Reddit on January 31, 2017, by user janskishimanski, garnering nearly 1,200 upvotes.

Meme Evolution

As variations of the 'whomst' concept on the Expanding Brain template became more intricate, the format was adapted to other subjects, including video games and political topics. Throughout February 2017, new Expanding Brain iterations continued to surface on both /r/dankmemes and /r/MemeEconomy. A video version shared by user BagelBoy in February 2017 amassed over 2.1 million views. Additionally, the meme gained media attention from outlets such as PopSugar, New York Magazine, and Mic.