What's the Connection Between XKCD and Scientific Communication?

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In summary: What's your favorite xkcd?In summary, my favorite xkcd is xkcd.com/526. It's funny because it perfectly encapsulates my work experience.
  • #36
Chi Meson said:
This one has a bad word, but so true. I've added a few more to the graph. Mangoes would definitely belong in the upper left.
http://xkcd.com/388/

I like Grapefruits. :-(
 
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  • #37
I probably have never had a "good" grapefruit, living in New England. The few times I've been to Florida, I have learned what a really good orange tastes like. I found no time to experiment with any other citrus.

If you read the mouse-over text, you will find the comment on coconuts.

And I also would not place cherries that far on the "easy" side. I have a $900 tooth, thanks to a freaking cherry.

Also, fresh figs go in the upper left corner. You can eat everything but the stem.

Starfruit goes in the lower right. Persimmons go somewhere between peaches and seedless grapes.
 
  • #38
I like these:
Python: http://xkcd.com/353/
Purity: http://xkcd.com/435/

And here is Randall Munroe giving a talk:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zJOS0sV2a24&hl=de_DE&fs=1&"></param><param [Broken] name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zJOS0sV2a24&hl=de_DE&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>
 
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  • #39
I just got my new xkcd shirt yesterday (Wearing it now):

shark_shirt_300.png


based on this comic (too long to post as an image I think):
http://xkcd.com/585/
 
  • #40
My favorite XKCD is this one:

http://www.xkcd.com/386/

duty_calls.png


Probably because it reminds me of my boyfriend. He's addicted to ars technica.
 
  • #41
engkatiemarie said:
My favorite XKCD is this one:

http://www.xkcd.com/386/

View attachment 22595

Probably because it reminds me of my boyfriend. He's addicted to ars technica.

That comic is the story of 90% of my PF participation. It also describes the motivation behind academic philosophy. Rarely does anyone say anything new. Every paper written just points out something that someone else was wrong about :tongue:.
 
<h2>1. What is XKCD and how does it relate to scientific communication?</h2><p>XKCD is a popular webcomic created by Randall Munroe that often features science and technology-related themes. It relates to scientific communication by using humor and satire to explain complex scientific concepts in a more accessible and entertaining way.</p><h2>2. How can XKCD be used as a tool for scientific communication?</h2><p>XKCD can be used as a tool for scientific communication by providing a platform for scientists to share their research and ideas in a more engaging and relatable manner. It can also be used to spark discussions and interest in scientific topics among a wider audience.</p><h2>3. Does XKCD accurately represent scientific concepts and information?</h2><p>While XKCD is known for its accuracy and attention to detail, it is important to remember that it is a webcomic and not a scientific journal. Some concepts may be simplified or exaggerated for comedic effect. It is always best to consult reliable sources for accurate scientific information.</p><h2>4. How has XKCD impacted the field of scientific communication?</h2><p>XKCD has had a significant impact on the field of scientific communication by making complex concepts more approachable and entertaining for a wider audience. It has also inspired other scientists and science communicators to use creative methods to share their work and ideas.</p><h2>5. Are there any potential drawbacks to using XKCD for scientific communication?</h2><p>One potential drawback of using XKCD for scientific communication is that it may oversimplify or misrepresent certain concepts, leading to misunderstandings or misconceptions. It is important to use XKCD as a supplement to other sources of information and not rely solely on it for accurate scientific knowledge.</p>

1. What is XKCD and how does it relate to scientific communication?

XKCD is a popular webcomic created by Randall Munroe that often features science and technology-related themes. It relates to scientific communication by using humor and satire to explain complex scientific concepts in a more accessible and entertaining way.

2. How can XKCD be used as a tool for scientific communication?

XKCD can be used as a tool for scientific communication by providing a platform for scientists to share their research and ideas in a more engaging and relatable manner. It can also be used to spark discussions and interest in scientific topics among a wider audience.

3. Does XKCD accurately represent scientific concepts and information?

While XKCD is known for its accuracy and attention to detail, it is important to remember that it is a webcomic and not a scientific journal. Some concepts may be simplified or exaggerated for comedic effect. It is always best to consult reliable sources for accurate scientific information.

4. How has XKCD impacted the field of scientific communication?

XKCD has had a significant impact on the field of scientific communication by making complex concepts more approachable and entertaining for a wider audience. It has also inspired other scientists and science communicators to use creative methods to share their work and ideas.

5. Are there any potential drawbacks to using XKCD for scientific communication?

One potential drawback of using XKCD for scientific communication is that it may oversimplify or misrepresent certain concepts, leading to misunderstandings or misconceptions. It is important to use XKCD as a supplement to other sources of information and not rely solely on it for accurate scientific knowledge.

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