We've had a few new additions to Skeptical Robot, our merch shop, and my absolute favorite is this sweet set of more than 200 Word Magnets for Skeptics. You can make tons of classic skeptical phrases and even create your own freeform poems on topics like homeopathy, evolution, vaccination, Bigfoot, aliens, and nano-robots. And since the set comes courtesy of my podcast, The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe, there are even a few in-jokes you can make (plus the names of all the co-hosts)! Here are a few options:
the plural of anecdote is not evidence
science or fiction
nano robots abducted Bob
bird vs monkey
to make an apple pie from scratch you must first invent the universe
Steve debunked homeopathy
And so many more!
[EDIT: SGU is even having a contest: buy a set, create your best skeptical poem, take a photo of it, and send it to [email protected]. The best poems will be read on air, and the one we deem the awesomest will get a free SGU t-shirt!]
Of course, while you're in the shop you should also pick up the new Chibi PZ Tee (say it three times fast), the tentacle-themed Pharyngula travel mug, and, naturally, a sweet Skepchick logo tee. Look, just buy all the things. ALL THE THINGS
Oh man. Was I the only one who wanted to strangle Perry every time he started on the whole bird vs. monkey thing?
Yes! ;)
Oooh. I need those magnets!
But the really important question is, can I make the sentence “I want a quickie with Bob?”
Sadly, no, as that phrase didn't get popular until the order was already placed. But, if these are very popular I may come out with an expansion pack later on!
I think I may have to add these to the Shakespeare and Zombie word magnets already on the fridge.
Will they be available at NECSS?
Yes, I will have some! I'm not sure how many I'll have, though, because they're kind of heavy as fuck when in groups of 12 or more.
When I saw that one of the words was "Bob," I grabbed them up. Good deal.
Awesome magnets, my three sets have shipped already. Great gifts for my skeptical and not so skeptical friends.
Will the Skepchicks be awarding a prize for the best magnet haiku?
Oops, I commented without rereading the OP so I missed the edit about the poem contest. One of us must have precognition.
Maybe both of us!
I linked to this on Pharyngula, and now readers have suggestions for future merchandise: one has asked for Rebecca’s Patented Cock-Severing Shears. I have no idea what they would do with them. How often do you have to butcher chickens nowadays?
I NEEEEEED a set of this. I already have some magnetic poetry, I have an artist set and a cat set, I would make the best poems ever.
Registered for my first NECSS, yay!…I'll see about buying some at the event.