The 'Faith in Humanity Restored' meme emerged in the early 2010s, often as a reaction to heart-wrenching or altruistic stories that countered the generally cynical nature of the internet. It typically features a screenshot of a news headline or a social media post showing an individual performing a selfless act, followed by the phrase 'Faith in Humanity Restored.' While it started as a genuine expression of emotional relief, it has evolved to be used both sincerely and ironically. The meme serves as a powerful tool for community building and highlighting the 'helpers' in the world, making it a staple of wholesome internet culture that persists across platforms like Reddit, Tumblr, and Facebook.