One of the best ways to get people to think more critically is to give them hints and nudges and help them to find their own way. Since its the holiday season we thought we’d come up with a list of gifts that help you do just that. We’ve tried to include items that people are likely to enjoy anyway but will also sow the seeds for skepticism, critical thinking and an appreciation for science and the scientific process. Also be sure to check out our other article: Top Ten Gifts for the Proud Skeptic for some great gift ideas for those who already identify themselves as skeptics.
Scientific Appreciation
The Magic of Reality by Richard Dawkins (Read Tony Ryan’s review)
Screen-used props from Mythbusters – Apparently these come up on ebay every now and then.
Membership to a local museum/science centre/observatory
Lesson in a flight simulator, behind the scenes at an airport
Molecular Jewellery (pictured below is the Theobromine necklace – a molecule in chocolate)
Critical Thinking
Placebo Bands - The skeptical version of ‘Power Balance Bands’ and similar products
For Kids (and the young at heart)
Giant Microbes (shown below)
Baby microscope/bunsen burner/magnifying glass
About Deception and Fooling People
Instructional books or DVDs for the novice magician
Other Fun Items
The World’s Fastest Indian: Based on the true story of New Zealand’s Burt Munro. Great old cars and motorcycles, great scenes on the Bonneville salt flats, and a great odyssey story about living this life to the fullest, as this is all we get.
300: Based on Frank Miller’s graphic novel, this might be more for the comic book savvy skeptic.
The Invention of Lying: This Ricky Gervais film went almost unnoticed by North American audiences, but carries a strong pro-atheist message. Gervais plays a character in an alternate reality who accidentally invents religion and becomes an unwilling prophet.
A big thank you to Kylie Sturgess, Rachael Dunlop, Jeff Borrowman and Tony Ryan for their contributions.
Nick Morris is an internet marketer and Skeptic from Adelaide, South Australia. He writes for Packed Full of Love, an Australian Online Gift shop, where you can find the perfect gift for your friends and family.