Monks among the Amulets

Local lore has it that these little dangling guys (and Buddhas, various gods, little elephants and large penis') protect you from bad spirits. All the Bangkok taxis have a dashboard full. At the Amulet Market today, the biggest purchasers were in saffron robes. There is also an aisle at the Supermarket for their "Monk Supplies."
I am bewildered...but now well-protected.