It's the day after Thanksgiving, and that can only mean two things: leftovers, and ridiculously crowded shopping malls. But for all you faithful Science Friday listeners, you know that it's time for our annual broadcast of this year's Ig Nobel Prize Ceremony -- recognizing the strange, silly, and stupid in the world of science.

As usual, the Annals of Improbable Research hosted the awards in October at Harvard University's Sanders Theater. In attendance were Ignitaries, a handful of real Nobel Laureates, and many amused spectators. Ten awards were given, to science that, in the words of master of ceremonies (and A.I.R editor) Marc Abrahams, "first makes people laugh, then makes them think."

In this hour of highlights from the evening's festivities, we'll hear about whether people can swim faster in syrup or in water, the cosmetic options available to neutered pets, an alarm clock that runs away, and more. Plus, an operatic tribute to infinity (libretto), a chance to win a date with a Nobel Laureate, and a heaping helping of silliness.

This is a pre-recorded show, so please don't try to call in. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday! Teachers, find more information about using Science Friday as a classroom resource in the Kids' Connection.

Guests:
Marc Abrahams
Author, "The Ig Nobel Prizes 2 : An All-New Collection of the World's Unlikeliest Research" (Dutton, 2005)
Master of Ceremonies
Editor, Annals of Improbable Research
Cambridge, Massachusetts

Various Genuinely Bemused Nobel Laureates
Sanders Theater
Harvard University
Cambridge, Massachusetts

A bunch of rather silly people
Sanders Theater
Harvard University
Cambridge, Massachusetts

Books/Articles Discussed:

"The Ig Nobel Prizes 2 : An All-New Collection of the World's Unlikeliest Research" by Marc Abrahams. Dutton, 2005.

Infinty Opera Libretto

(find books discussed on previous broadcasts)

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This segment produced by Charles Bergquist