Regarding Mad Max, Thunderdome, et al.

I understand that once the apocalypse comes things will change, values will slide, paradigms will shift. Of course, things will be different. Still, one would think that some basic concepts would stay the same; water will be wet, round objects will roll, pop-tarts will be tasty. Considering all of this, I have a grave concern. What sort of physics bending cataclysmic event will occur that will lead us all to believe that left over high school football pads and soup strainers will provide the necessary protection to ensure our survival? Apparently a colander on one's head is the ultimate in safety and security. Perhaps we should be funneling federal funds into studying the immense powers that lie in placing a sieve on our heads. Perhaps this study can even prevent Armageddon.