New Meme Asks the Most Important Question: Fish, Mermaid, or Donkey?

A new viral meme has stormed Twitter, delivering the biggest online debate since the yellow or blue dress. The meme features the image above, with the description “If you’re right-brained, you’ll see a fish. If you’re left-brained, you’ll see a mermaid.” The theory of left-brain/right-brain personality dominance is a popular one, with countless books and videos devoted to the differences inherent in both sides.

According to the prevailing theory, right-brained people are more creative, thoughtful, subjective and intuitive. Left-brain folks are more analytical, logical and methodical in their thinking. Right-brain people may be more spontaneous and unpredictable, whereas left-brain people can be less in touch with their emotions. But is there any truth to left-brain/right-brain personalities?

It turns out, the right-brain/left-brain theory is a myth. Each hemisphere of the brain controls different bodily functions: the brain’s right side controls the motion of the left arm and leg, as well as vision and sensory stimulus from the right side of the body, and vice versa. But this split doesn’t extend to personality traits. The misconception stems from 18th century neurologists Broca and Wernicke, and has since been disproven.

And the fallacy of the left-brain/right-brain argument is proved in the various responses to this image. Many people on social media have diverged from the two options, seeing a donkey or seal instead.

Even Harry Potter author and noted TERF J.K. Rowling got in on the meme, but was quickly roasted:

What do you see? Let us know if you’re team fish, mermaid, donkey, or seal in the comments!

(image: Tiktok/@lauryn_celine)

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Chelsea Steiner

Chelsea was born and raised in New Orleans, which explains her affinity for cheesy grits and Britney Spears. An pop culture journalist since 2012, her work has appeared on Autostraddle, AfterEllen, and more. Her beats include queer popular culture, film, television, republican clownery, and the unwavering belief that 'The Long Kiss Goodnight' is the greatest movie ever made. She currently resides in sunny Los Angeles, with her husband, 2 sons, and one poorly behaved rescue dog. She is a former roller derby girl and a black belt in Judo, so she is not to be trifled with. She loves the word “Jewess” and wishes more people used it to describe her.

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