This meme originates from a viral tweet by user @SapphireLally (Sapphire Lally), who is identified in the profile picture and handle at the top of the image. The text of the tweet reads: "I'm writing my PhD thesis in theoretical physics and every time I have to decide between using > and < I think to myself 'the crocodile wants to eat the bigger number'".
The humor in this meme is highly relatable, particularly for students and academics across various disciplines. It highlights a common phenomenon where individuals, even those operating at the cutting edge of complex fields like theoretical physics, still fall back on simplified, often childlike, mnemonic devices for fundamental concepts. The "crocodile rule" (or alligator rule) is a widely taught method for remembering the direction of the greater than (>) and less than (<) symbols, where the open mouth of the crocodile/alligator "eats" the larger number.
This meme resonates because it:
- Normalizes struggles: It shows that even highly intelligent people face moments where basic knowledge feels elusive or requires a simple trick to recall.
- Creates relatability: It bridges the gap between advanced academic pursuits and common learning experiences from childhood.
- Is inherently funny: The juxtaposition of "PhD thesis in theoretical physics" with the elementary "crocodile rule" creates an absurd and delightful contrast.
- Goes viral: Its universal appeal and humorous honesty make it highly shareable among students, professors, and anyone who has ever felt a moment of doubt about something seemingly simple.
Comments
0 comment