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Spurious correlation #4,415 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Popularity of the first name Thaddeus and the second variable is Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California.  The chart goes from 1980 to 2020, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

As the number of Thaddeuses grew, so did the demand for individual freedom and limited government intervention, leading to a surge in support for the Libertarian candidate. It's as if every new Thaddeus brought along a tiny copy of 'The Constitution' as a baby gift!

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate an image depicting a bustling playground in the realm of Skyrim, filled with children named Thaddeus frolicking and playing together. Each Thaddeus is holding a miniature copy of 'The Constitution,' while in the background, a banner featuring the Libertarian presidential candidate’s name stands proudly, with a growing number of votes emerging around it like balloons. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.
This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: Popularity of the first name Thaddeus and Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California. Given these, which of the following image style descriptions seems most appropriate? Pick the one that seems to be related to one of the variables at hand. Please respond with only one of the following potential descriptions: Scalar art Cyber folk Hyper-realistic A scene from Skyrim Low poly
ChatGPT: A scene from Skyrim

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both Popularity of the first name Thaddeus and Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California, in the following situation: As the number of Thaddeuses grew, so did the demand for individual freedom and limited government intervention, leading to a surge in support for the Libertarian candidate. It's as if every new Thaddeus brought along a tiny copy of 'The Constitution' as a baby gift!. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: A playground filled with children named Thaddeus playing together, each holding a tiny copy of 'The Constitution.' In the background, a banner with the Libertarian presidential candidate's name is surrounded by a growing number of votes popping up like balloons.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You write and improve image generation prompts for DALLE-3. You maintain the same subjects, but enhance the visuals.
User prompt: Please respond with an image generation prompt that would be likely to create an interesting visual using DALLE-3, using the following style: [ A scene from Skyrim ] and depicting this scene: A playground filled with children named Thaddeus playing together, each holding a tiny copy of 'The Constitution.' In the background, a banner with the Libertarian presidential candidate's name is surrounded by a growing number of votes popping up like balloons. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate an image depicting a bustling playground in the realm of Skyrim, filled with children named Thaddeus frolicking and playing together. Each Thaddeus is holding a miniature copy of 'The Constitution,' while in the background, a banner featuring the Libertarian presidential candidate’s name stands proudly, with a growing number of votes emerging around it like balloons.

*Variations in the User Prompts from chart to chart are just the result of random number generation in Python. I wrote a few arrays of various styles and methods to ask questions to change up the results. Every time this site writes an explanation or generates an image, the script picks from each at random.

I sequence the requests into multiple prompts because I find GPT 3.5 to perform much better with short, well-managed contexts. Thus, I track the context directly in Python and only ask ChatGPT targeted questions.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how increases in Popularity of the first name Thaddeus positively influenced Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California. Add a funny one-liner at the end.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
The Thaddeus Touch: A Sordid Tale of Libertarian Electoral Swagger in California

The Journal of Political Shenanigans

Jan 2024

Reminder: This paper is AI-generated. Not real!
Quick note: This sequence is long and repetitive. That's how the prompt engineering works for this one. I manage the output in Python to format it into this PDF.




Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You write titles and abstracts of goofy academic research papers.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, and add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Thaddeus and Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Include a pun in the title.

Your research team used data from US Social Security Administration and MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and p < 0.01 for 1980 to 2020.

Please respond in this format (replace "Lorem ipsum dolor sit" with your title and abstract)

[[TITLE]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit

[[ABSTRACT]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit



ChatGPT:
[[TITLE]]
"The Thaddeus Touch: A Sordid Tale of Libertarian Electoral Swagger in California"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The correlation between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California has long intrigued researchers and pun enthusiasts alike. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse, our study delved into this enigmatic relationship from 1980 to 2020. Our analysis revealed a resounding correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and p < 0.01, showcasing a strong statistical tie-in and leaving us wondering, "Is California really Thad-title for Libertarian success?"

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the Libertarian candidate want to connect with Thaddeus? Because they thought it might add a 'Thad' of electoral luck!"

The findings extend beyond mere coincidence, with implications that could alter the political landscape. With every notable increase in the number of newborn Thaddeuses in California, a surge in votes for the Libertarian party was predictably observed. This poses the tantalizing prospect of using the popularity of names as a political forecasting tool. After all, it seems a "Thad" in the name brings a "Thad" more votes for the Libertarians. Our research offers a whimsical lens through which to view the baffling world of electoral dynamics, leaving us with a lingering question: "Is it the 'Thaddeus Touch' or the 'Libertarian Lure' that drives this statistical affinity?"

Dad Joke Alert: "What do you get when you combine political statistics and the name Thaddeus? A 'Thad' correlation coefficient, of course!"


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the introduction section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Thaddeus and Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"The Thaddeus Touch: A Sordid Tale of Libertarian Electoral Swagger in California"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The correlation between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California has long intrigued researchers and pun enthusiasts alike. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse, our study delved into this enigmatic relationship from 1980 to 2020. Our analysis revealed a resounding correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and p < 0.01, showcasing a strong statistical tie-in and leaving us wondering, "Is California really Thad-title for Libertarian success?"

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the Libertarian candidate want to connect with Thaddeus? Because they thought it might add a 'Thad' of electoral luck!"

The findings extend beyond mere coincidence, with implications that could alter the political landscape. With every notable increase in the number of newborn Thaddeuses in California, a surge in votes for the Libertarian party was predictably observed. This poses the tantalizing prospect of using the popularity of names as a political forecasting tool. After all, it seems a "Thad" in the name brings a "Thad" more votes for the Libertarians. Our research offers a whimsical lens through which to view the baffling world of electoral dynamics, leaving us with a lingering question: "Is it the 'Thaddeus Touch' or the 'Libertarian Lure' that drives this statistical affinity?"

Dad Joke Alert: "What do you get when you combine political statistics and the name Thaddeus? A 'Thad' correlation coefficient, of course!"

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The intersection of baby names and electoral outcomes is a topic that elicits both scholarly intrigue and jovial amusement. We embark on a whimsical journey into the curious relationship between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and the votes garnered by the Libertarian presidential candidate in the Golden State of California. As researchers, we aim to dispel the murmurs of mere coincidence and embrace the statistical web of intrigue that weaves together names and political preferences.

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did Thaddeus go into politics? Because he wanted to make sure everyone put the 'Thad' in 'vote'!"

This study operates at the quirky intersection of demography and political science, combining the seemingly disparate realms of 'Nameology' and electoral dynamics. The allure of unraveling this enigma lies not only in its statistical revelry but also in its potential to add a dash of joviality to the serious business of politicking. With a nod to whimsy and a wink to the serious statistical methodologies, we aim to provide resounding evidence for this tongue-in-cheek hypothesis.

Dad Joke Alert: "Why do Thaddeuses tend to lean towards Libertarian candidates? Because they believe in 'Thad'ditional freedom!"

By grounding our research in comprehensive data spanning four decades, we leverage the birth records from the US Social Security Administration to assess the ebbs and flows of Thaddeus' popularity and contrast this with the electoral choices made by the residents of California. Our study seeks to illuminate the temporal patterns that suggest a mysterious, almost mystical pull between the eponymous name and the electoral choices in the land of palm trees and political dreams.

Dad Joke Alert: "What did the researcher say about the Thaddeus-Libertarian connection? 'It's statistically significant, but we should also account for the 'Thad' of puns in the mix!'"


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft a literature review section of an academic research paper, that starts out dry for the first few sentences but then becomes hilarious and goofy.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Thaddeus and Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Speak in the present tense for this section (the authors find...), as is common in academic research paper literature reviews. Name the sources in a format similar to this: In "Book," the authors find lorem and ipsum.

Make up the lorem and ipsum part, but make it sound related to the topic at hand.

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Then cite some social media posts you read that seem to be related.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"The Thaddeus Touch: A Sordid Tale of Libertarian Electoral Swagger in California"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The correlation between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California has long intrigued researchers and pun enthusiasts alike. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse, our study delved into this enigmatic relationship from 1980 to 2020. Our analysis revealed a resounding correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and p < 0.01, showcasing a strong statistical tie-in and leaving us wondering, "Is California really Thad-title for Libertarian success?"

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the Libertarian candidate want to connect with Thaddeus? Because they thought it might add a 'Thad' of electoral luck!"

The findings extend beyond mere coincidence, with implications that could alter the political landscape. With every notable increase in the number of newborn Thaddeuses in California, a surge in votes for the Libertarian party was predictably observed. This poses the tantalizing prospect of using the popularity of names as a political forecasting tool. After all, it seems a "Thad" in the name brings a "Thad" more votes for the Libertarians. Our research offers a whimsical lens through which to view the baffling world of electoral dynamics, leaving us with a lingering question: "Is it the 'Thaddeus Touch' or the 'Libertarian Lure' that drives this statistical affinity?"

Dad Joke Alert: "What do you get when you combine political statistics and the name Thaddeus? A 'Thad' correlation coefficient, of course!"

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The intersection of baby names and electoral outcomes is a topic that elicits both scholarly intrigue and jovial amusement. We embark on a whimsical journey into the curious relationship between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and the votes garnered by the Libertarian presidential candidate in the Golden State of California. As researchers, we aim to dispel the murmurs of mere coincidence and embrace the statistical web of intrigue that weaves together names and political preferences.
Dad Joke Alert: "Why did Thaddeus go into politics? Because he wanted to make sure everyone put the 'Thad' in 'vote'!"
This study operates at the quirky intersection of demography and political science, combining the seemingly disparate realms of 'Nameology' and electoral dynamics. The allure of unraveling this enigma lies not only in its statistical revelry but also in its potential to add a dash of joviality to the serious business of politicking. With a nod to whimsy and a wink to the serious statistical methodologies, we aim to provide resounding evidence for this tongue-in-cheek hypothesis.
Dad Joke Alert: "Why do Thaddeuses tend to lean towards Libertarian candidates? Because they believe in 'Thad'ditional freedom!"
By grounding our research in comprehensive data spanning four decades, we leverage the birth records from the US Social Security Administration to assess the ebbs and flows of Thaddeus' popularity and contrast this with the electoral choices made by the residents of California. Our study seeks to illuminate the temporal patterns that suggest a mysterious, almost mystical pull between the eponymous name and the electoral choices in the land of palm trees and political dreams.
Dad Joke Alert: "What did the researcher say about the Thaddeus-Libertarian connection? 'It's statistically significant, but we should also account for the 'Thad' of puns in the mix!'"

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The literature reveals a fascinating array of investigations into the intersection of name popularity and political preferences. Smith and Doe (2010) delved into the implications of baby names on various sociopolitical dynamics, laying the groundwork for peculiar connections between nomenclature and electoral inclinations. Their work paved the way for a more detailed scrutiny of the Thaddeus phenomenon in later studies.

Jones and Smith (2015) expanded on this theme, scrutinizing the regional variations in name popularity and their correlation with political affiliations. This nuanced exploration set the stage for the present study's focus on the discernible impact of the name "Thaddeus" on Libertarian electoral fortunes in California.

As our inquiry transcends the traditional boundaries of political science, it draws inspiration from a diverse array of disciplines. Works such as "Freakonomics" by Levitt and Dubner (2009) shed light on the unexpected and often whimsical factors that influence decision-making in both public and private spheres. The authors' emphasis on the unconventional underpinnings of human behavior resonates with our quest to unravel the idiosyncratic relationship between the name "Thaddeus" and political voting patterns.

Transitioning from the realm of non-fiction to the imaginative landscapes of fiction, the writings of Philip K. Dick exemplify a keen fascination with elusive phenomena and eerie connections in "The Minority Report" (1956). While not directly related to name popularity and electoral proclivities, Dick's speculative narratives inspire an appreciation for the enigmatic twists and turns that underpin human affairs, much like the unexpected correlation uncovered in our own study.

Additionally, anecdotal evidence gleaned from social media platforms further underscores the public's intrigue with the Thaddeus-Libertarian synergy. A tweet by @PoliticalPundit reads, "Is California the 'Thad'land of Libertarian hopes? #ThaddeusVotes." Such conjectures flourish in the digital ether, spurring conversations that mirror our own musings on the topic.

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the Thaddeus-themed book stay on the bestseller list? Because readers couldn't resist the 'Thad'dy plot twists!"


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the methodology section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Thaddeus and Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from US Social Security Administration and MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse . You used data from 1980 to 2020

Make up the research methods you don't know. Make them a bit goofy and convoluted.

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"The Thaddeus Touch: A Sordid Tale of Libertarian Electoral Swagger in California"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The correlation between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California has long intrigued researchers and pun enthusiasts alike. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse, our study delved into this enigmatic relationship from 1980 to 2020. Our analysis revealed a resounding correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and p < 0.01, showcasing a strong statistical tie-in and leaving us wondering, "Is California really Thad-title for Libertarian success?"

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the Libertarian candidate want to connect with Thaddeus? Because they thought it might add a 'Thad' of electoral luck!"

The findings extend beyond mere coincidence, with implications that could alter the political landscape. With every notable increase in the number of newborn Thaddeuses in California, a surge in votes for the Libertarian party was predictably observed. This poses the tantalizing prospect of using the popularity of names as a political forecasting tool. After all, it seems a "Thad" in the name brings a "Thad" more votes for the Libertarians. Our research offers a whimsical lens through which to view the baffling world of electoral dynamics, leaving us with a lingering question: "Is it the 'Thaddeus Touch' or the 'Libertarian Lure' that drives this statistical affinity?"

Dad Joke Alert: "What do you get when you combine political statistics and the name Thaddeus? A 'Thad' correlation coefficient, of course!"

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The intersection of baby names and electoral outcomes is a topic that elicits both scholarly intrigue and jovial amusement. We embark on a whimsical journey into the curious relationship between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and the votes garnered by the Libertarian presidential candidate in the Golden State of California. As researchers, we aim to dispel the murmurs of mere coincidence and embrace the statistical web of intrigue that weaves together names and political preferences.
Dad Joke Alert: "Why did Thaddeus go into politics? Because he wanted to make sure everyone put the 'Thad' in 'vote'!"
This study operates at the quirky intersection of demography and political science, combining the seemingly disparate realms of 'Nameology' and electoral dynamics. The allure of unraveling this enigma lies not only in its statistical revelry but also in its potential to add a dash of joviality to the serious business of politicking. With a nod to whimsy and a wink to the serious statistical methodologies, we aim to provide resounding evidence for this tongue-in-cheek hypothesis.
Dad Joke Alert: "Why do Thaddeuses tend to lean towards Libertarian candidates? Because they believe in 'Thad'ditional freedom!"
By grounding our research in comprehensive data spanning four decades, we leverage the birth records from the US Social Security Administration to assess the ebbs and flows of Thaddeus' popularity and contrast this with the electoral choices made by the residents of California. Our study seeks to illuminate the temporal patterns that suggest a mysterious, almost mystical pull between the eponymous name and the electoral choices in the land of palm trees and political dreams.
Dad Joke Alert: "What did the researcher say about the Thaddeus-Libertarian connection? 'It's statistically significant, but we should also account for the 'Thad' of puns in the mix!'"

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To unearth the mystical connection between the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California, we employed a method as intriguing as the relationship itself, but hopefully with fewer puns. Our data collection journey began by dusting off the archives of the US Social Security Administration. The treasure trove of information on baby names from 1980 to 2020 provided us with a comprehensive look at the evolution of Thaddeus' popularity, offering a historical glimpse that even the most seasoned statisticians could cherish.

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the statistician avoid using the name Thaddeus? Because he was worried it would 'Thad' overcomplicate the analysis!"

In parallel, we ventured into the digital realm to explore the expansive MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse. This grand repository of electoral data allowed us to correlate the ebbs and flows of Thaddeus' popularity with the electoral choices made by Californians. Our quest for understanding the Thaddeus-Libertarian lilt led us to navigate through a convoluted labyrinth of data points and political debacles, akin to a quest for the Holy Grail, but with more spreadsheets.

Dad Joke Alert: "Why was the statistician so good at politics? Because he had a talent for 'pole-vaulting' over data points and 'poll'ing the public for their opinions!"

Having amassed this dual trove of data from disparate realms, we sought to forge a grand alliance between 'Nameology' and electoral dynamics. Our statistical techniques mirrored a delicate waltz as we paired the birth records of Thaddeus against the electoral dalliances in California, brandishing correlation analyses and regression models as our trusty sabers in this data-driven duel.

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the statistician bring a sword to the data analysis? Because he wanted to slice through the uncertainty and leave no outliers standing!"

In order to pronounce the verdict of statistical significance, we summoned the grand arbiter of hypothesis testing – the almighty p-value. Our statistical incantations, performed with the precision of a surgeon and the finesse of a sommelier, culminated in revealing a resounding correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and p < 0.01, unleashing a symphony of statistical harmony that rang through the hallowed halls of research.

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the data set feel a sudden chill? Because the p-value cast a 'Thad'ow over its significance!"

Thus, armed with data from the annals of public records and electoral victories, we embarked on a grand odyssey of statistical discovery, which is sure to enliven many a statistical soirée with its unexpected twists and, of course, a 'Thad' of electoral humor.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the results section of an academic research paper. You speak in the past tense (you found...).
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Thaddeus and Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from US Social Security Administration and MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse .

For the time period 1980 to 2020, you found a correlation 0.9357802, r-squared of 0.8756847, and p < 0.01.

One figure will be included. The figure (Fig. 1) is a scatterplot showing the strong correlation between the two variables. You don't need to specify where; I will add the figure.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"The Thaddeus Touch: A Sordid Tale of Libertarian Electoral Swagger in California"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The correlation between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California has long intrigued researchers and pun enthusiasts alike. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse, our study delved into this enigmatic relationship from 1980 to 2020. Our analysis revealed a resounding correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and p < 0.01, showcasing a strong statistical tie-in and leaving us wondering, "Is California really Thad-title for Libertarian success?"

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the Libertarian candidate want to connect with Thaddeus? Because they thought it might add a 'Thad' of electoral luck!"

The findings extend beyond mere coincidence, with implications that could alter the political landscape. With every notable increase in the number of newborn Thaddeuses in California, a surge in votes for the Libertarian party was predictably observed. This poses the tantalizing prospect of using the popularity of names as a political forecasting tool. After all, it seems a "Thad" in the name brings a "Thad" more votes for the Libertarians. Our research offers a whimsical lens through which to view the baffling world of electoral dynamics, leaving us with a lingering question: "Is it the 'Thaddeus Touch' or the 'Libertarian Lure' that drives this statistical affinity?"

Dad Joke Alert: "What do you get when you combine political statistics and the name Thaddeus? A 'Thad' correlation coefficient, of course!"

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The intersection of baby names and electoral outcomes is a topic that elicits both scholarly intrigue and jovial amusement. We embark on a whimsical journey into the curious relationship between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and the votes garnered by the Libertarian presidential candidate in the Golden State of California. As researchers, we aim to dispel the murmurs of mere coincidence and embrace the statistical web of intrigue that weaves together names and political preferences.
Dad Joke Alert: "Why did Thaddeus go into politics? Because he wanted to make sure everyone put the 'Thad' in 'vote'!"
This study operates at the quirky intersection of demography and political science, combining the seemingly disparate realms of 'Nameology' and electoral dynamics. The allure of unraveling this enigma lies not only in its statistical revelry but also in its potential to add a dash of joviality to the serious business of politicking. With a nod to whimsy and a wink to the serious statistical methodologies, we aim to provide resounding evidence for this tongue-in-cheek hypothesis.
Dad Joke Alert: "Why do Thaddeuses tend to lean towards Libertarian candidates? Because they believe in 'Thad'ditional freedom!"
By grounding our research in comprehensive data spanning four decades, we leverage the birth records from the US Social Security Administration to assess the ebbs and flows of Thaddeus' popularity and contrast this with the electoral choices made by the residents of California. Our study seeks to illuminate the temporal patterns that suggest a mysterious, almost mystical pull between the eponymous name and the electoral choices in the land of palm trees and political dreams.
Dad Joke Alert: "What did the researcher say about the Thaddeus-Libertarian connection? 'It's statistically significant, but we should also account for the 'Thad' of puns in the mix!'"

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The analysis of data from the US Social Security Administration and MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse, spanning the years 1980 to 2020, revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California. The correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and an r-squared of 0.8756847 denote a robust relationship between these seemingly unrelated variables. It seems that the name "Thaddeus" carries a certain electoral sway in the Golden State.

Dad Joke Alert: "When Thaddeus saw the statistical correlation, he exclaimed, 'I guess I really do have the 'Thad' touch!'"

Furthermore, the scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually illustrates the striking positive correlation between the prevalence of the name "Thaddeus" and the votes cast for the Libertarian candidate in California. The figure depicts a clear pattern of increasing Libertarian votes accompanying the surge in the popularity of the name "Thaddeus."

Our findings not only establish the statistical significance of the Thaddeus-Libertarian connection but also invite a whimsical reconsideration of the potential names have in shaping political preferences. It appears that a potent blend of statistical intrigue and a touch of humor can shed light on the curious dynamics of electoral outcomes, leaving us with a perennial question: Is California simply more inclined to embrace political Thad-deology?

Dad Joke Alert: "What did the political scientist say about the Thaddeus-Libertarian relationship? 'It's a 'Thad' matter of statistical significance and a whole lot of pun-tential!'"


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the discussion section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Thaddeus and Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

Here are the title, abstract, literature review, and results sections. Please harken back to 1-2 of the goofy items in the literature review, but pretend to take them completely seriously. Discuss how your results supported the prior research.

Do not write a conclusion. I will add a conclusion after this.

[[TITLE]]
"The Thaddeus Touch: A Sordid Tale of Libertarian Electoral Swagger in California"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The correlation between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California has long intrigued researchers and pun enthusiasts alike. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse, our study delved into this enigmatic relationship from 1980 to 2020. Our analysis revealed a resounding correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and p < 0.01, showcasing a strong statistical tie-in and leaving us wondering, "Is California really Thad-title for Libertarian success?"

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the Libertarian candidate want to connect with Thaddeus? Because they thought it might add a 'Thad' of electoral luck!"

The findings extend beyond mere coincidence, with implications that could alter the political landscape. With every notable increase in the number of newborn Thaddeuses in California, a surge in votes for the Libertarian party was predictably observed. This poses the tantalizing prospect of using the popularity of names as a political forecasting tool. After all, it seems a "Thad" in the name brings a "Thad" more votes for the Libertarians. Our research offers a whimsical lens through which to view the baffling world of electoral dynamics, leaving us with a lingering question: "Is it the 'Thaddeus Touch' or the 'Libertarian Lure' that drives this statistical affinity?"

Dad Joke Alert: "What do you get when you combine political statistics and the name Thaddeus? A 'Thad' correlation coefficient, of course!"

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The literature reveals a fascinating array of investigations into the intersection of name popularity and political preferences. Smith and Doe (2010) delved into the implications of baby names on various sociopolitical dynamics, laying the groundwork for peculiar connections between nomenclature and electoral inclinations. Their work paved the way for a more detailed scrutiny of the Thaddeus phenomenon in later studies.
Jones and Smith (2015) expanded on this theme, scrutinizing the regional variations in name popularity and their correlation with political affiliations. This nuanced exploration set the stage for the present study's focus on the discernible impact of the name "Thaddeus" on Libertarian electoral fortunes in California.
As our inquiry transcends the traditional boundaries of political science, it draws inspiration from a diverse array of disciplines. Works such as "Freakonomics" by Levitt and Dubner (2009) shed light on the unexpected and often whimsical factors that influence decision-making in both public and private spheres. The authors' emphasis on the unconventional underpinnings of human behavior resonates with our quest to unravel the idiosyncratic relationship between the name "Thaddeus" and political voting patterns.
Transitioning from the realm of non-fiction to the imaginative landscapes of fiction, the writings of Philip K. Dick exemplify a keen fascination with elusive phenomena and eerie connections in "The Minority Report" (1956). While not directly related to name popularity and electoral proclivities, Dick's speculative narratives inspire an appreciation for the enigmatic twists and turns that underpin human affairs, much like the unexpected correlation uncovered in our own study.
Additionally, anecdotal evidence gleaned from social media platforms further underscores the public's intrigue with the Thaddeus-Libertarian synergy. A tweet by @PoliticalPundit reads, "Is California the 'Thad'land of Libertarian hopes? #ThaddeusVotes." Such conjectures flourish in the digital ether, spurring conversations that mirror our own musings on the topic.
Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the Thaddeus-themed book stay on the bestseller list? Because readers couldn't resist the 'Thad'dy plot twists!"

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of data from the US Social Security Administration and MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse, spanning the years 1980 to 2020, revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California. The correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and an r-squared of 0.8756847 denote a robust relationship between these seemingly unrelated variables. It seems that the name "Thaddeus" carries a certain electoral sway in the Golden State.
Dad Joke Alert: "When Thaddeus saw the statistical correlation, he exclaimed, 'I guess I really do have the 'Thad' touch!'"
Furthermore, the scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually illustrates the striking positive correlation between the prevalence of the name "Thaddeus" and the votes cast for the Libertarian candidate in California. The figure depicts a clear pattern of increasing Libertarian votes accompanying the surge in the popularity of the name "Thaddeus."
Our findings not only establish the statistical significance of the Thaddeus-Libertarian connection but also invite a whimsical reconsideration of the potential names have in shaping political preferences. It appears that a potent blend of statistical intrigue and a touch of humor can shed light on the curious dynamics of electoral outcomes, leaving us with a perennial question: Is California simply more inclined to embrace political Thad-deology?
Dad Joke Alert: "What did the political scientist say about the Thaddeus-Libertarian relationship? 'It's a 'Thad' matter of statistical significance and a whole lot of pun-tential!'"

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The results of our study provide compelling evidence of the notable association between the rising prominence of the name "Thaddeus" and the electoral support for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California. Our findings not only validate prior theoretical frameworks but also foster an appreciation for the unexpected role of nomenclature in shaping political proclivities. It seems that California may indeed possess a "Thad"deus penchant for Libertarian leanings, sparking further musings on the idiosyncrasies of electoral behavior.

Our research echoes the pioneering work of Smith and Doe (2010) and Jones and Smith (2015), elucidating the intricate interplay between name popularity and political dynamics. The resounding correlation we observed aligns with the premise advanced by these scholars, reaffirming the profound impact of nomenclature on societal inclinations. The thematic resonance between our study and prior research emphasizes the enduring relevance of peculiar connections in shaping the political landscape.

Moreover, our findings resonate with the unorthodox insights offered by Levitt and Dubner (2009), who, in "Freakonomics," underscore the pervasive influence of unconventional factors on decision-making processes. The revelation of a robust correlation between the name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian candidate in California serves as a whimsical manifestation of the unexpected variables that can sway electoral outcomes. It seems that the "Thad"deus touch extends beyond mere chance, reminding us of the capricious underpinnings of human decision-making.

In a similar vein, the speculative themes explored in Philip K. Dick's writings find a peculiar echo in our observed correlation. While not directly related, the eerie connections that tantalized Dick parallel the improbable link we unveiled between the name "Thaddeus" and Libertarian voting patterns. This parallel underscores the inherent allure of inexplicable phenomena, adding a touch of intrigue to our findings and prompting further contemplation on the enigmatic forces that shape political preferences.

The prevalent discourse surrounding the Thaddeus-Libertarian synergy on social media platforms stands as a testament to the public's intrigue with our research topic. The tweet by @PoliticalPundit encapsulates the pervasive curiosity surrounding the "Thad"deus factor in California's political landscape, emphasizing the whimsical essence of our inquiry. Such digital reverberations showcase the capacity of our study to spark unconventional musings, affirming the whimsical appeal of our findings in the virtual sphere.

Our study sheds light on the remarkable influence of name popularity in shaping political preferences, offering a lighthearted yet insightful perspective on the ever-fascinating domain of electoral dynamics. The "Thad"deus touch appears to wield a sway that transcends conventional expectations, leaving us with a lingering question: Is California truly the 'Thad'land of Libertarian aspirations?


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the discussion section of goofy academic research papers that sounds like it belongs based on the title and abstract provided.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Thaddeus and Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Limit your response to 300 tokens. At the very end, assert that no more research is needed in this area.

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
"The Thaddeus Touch: A Sordid Tale of Libertarian Electoral Swagger in California"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The correlation between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California has long intrigued researchers and pun enthusiasts alike. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse, our study delved into this enigmatic relationship from 1980 to 2020. Our analysis revealed a resounding correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and p < 0.01, showcasing a strong statistical tie-in and leaving us wondering, "Is California really Thad-title for Libertarian success?"

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the Libertarian candidate want to connect with Thaddeus? Because they thought it might add a 'Thad' of electoral luck!"

The findings extend beyond mere coincidence, with implications that could alter the political landscape. With every notable increase in the number of newborn Thaddeuses in California, a surge in votes for the Libertarian party was predictably observed. This poses the tantalizing prospect of using the popularity of names as a political forecasting tool. After all, it seems a "Thad" in the name brings a "Thad" more votes for the Libertarians. Our research offers a whimsical lens through which to view the baffling world of electoral dynamics, leaving us with a lingering question: "Is it the 'Thaddeus Touch' or the 'Libertarian Lure' that drives this statistical affinity?"

Dad Joke Alert: "What do you get when you combine political statistics and the name Thaddeus? A 'Thad' correlation coefficient, of course!"

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The intersection of baby names and electoral outcomes is a topic that elicits both scholarly intrigue and jovial amusement. We embark on a whimsical journey into the curious relationship between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and the votes garnered by the Libertarian presidential candidate in the Golden State of California. As researchers, we aim to dispel the murmurs of mere coincidence and embrace the statistical web of intrigue that weaves together names and political preferences.
Dad Joke Alert: "Why did Thaddeus go into politics? Because he wanted to make sure everyone put the 'Thad' in 'vote'!"
This study operates at the quirky intersection of demography and political science, combining the seemingly disparate realms of 'Nameology' and electoral dynamics. The allure of unraveling this enigma lies not only in its statistical revelry but also in its potential to add a dash of joviality to the serious business of politicking. With a nod to whimsy and a wink to the serious statistical methodologies, we aim to provide resounding evidence for this tongue-in-cheek hypothesis.
Dad Joke Alert: "Why do Thaddeuses tend to lean towards Libertarian candidates? Because they believe in 'Thad'ditional freedom!"
By grounding our research in comprehensive data spanning four decades, we leverage the birth records from the US Social Security Administration to assess the ebbs and flows of Thaddeus' popularity and contrast this with the electoral choices made by the residents of California. Our study seeks to illuminate the temporal patterns that suggest a mysterious, almost mystical pull between the eponymous name and the electoral choices in the land of palm trees and political dreams.
Dad Joke Alert: "What did the researcher say about the Thaddeus-Libertarian connection? 'It's statistically significant, but we should also account for the 'Thad' of puns in the mix!'"

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of data from the US Social Security Administration and MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse, spanning the years 1980 to 2020, revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California. The correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and an r-squared of 0.8756847 denote a robust relationship between these seemingly unrelated variables. It seems that the name "Thaddeus" carries a certain electoral sway in the Golden State.
Dad Joke Alert: "When Thaddeus saw the statistical correlation, he exclaimed, 'I guess I really do have the 'Thad' touch!'"
Furthermore, the scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually illustrates the striking positive correlation between the prevalence of the name "Thaddeus" and the votes cast for the Libertarian candidate in California. The figure depicts a clear pattern of increasing Libertarian votes accompanying the surge in the popularity of the name "Thaddeus."
Our findings not only establish the statistical significance of the Thaddeus-Libertarian connection but also invite a whimsical reconsideration of the potential names have in shaping political preferences. It appears that a potent blend of statistical intrigue and a touch of humor can shed light on the curious dynamics of electoral outcomes, leaving us with a perennial question: Is California simply more inclined to embrace political Thad-deology?
Dad Joke Alert: "What did the political scientist say about the Thaddeus-Libertarian relationship? 'It's a 'Thad' matter of statistical significance and a whole lot of pun-tential!'"

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our research has illuminated a fascinating and robust connection between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California. With a correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and a resounding p-value of less than 0.01, it's safe to say that there's more to Thaddeus than meets the eye – or the ballot box!

Dad Joke Alert: "Why did politicians avoid the Thaddeus-Libertarian correlation? They were afraid of a 'Thad' case of name-dropping!"

The striking visual representation in our scatterplot (Fig. 1) not only adds to the statistical significance but also adds a touch of whimsy to the political dalliance of names and votes. After all, who knew that a 'Thad' bit of popularity in a name could sway electoral preferences so significantly?

Our findings hold relevance beyond the realm of political science and statistics. They capture the imagination and prompt further reflection on the curious interplay between names and political outcomes, leaving us with an enduring question: Is it the individual or the name that wields the true electoral power?

Dad Joke Alert: "What did the study of Thaddeus and Libertarian votes teach us? That sometimes, statistics can be 'Thad' complex, but a good pun always helps lighten the mood!"

In light of these resounding results, it seems that our research has effectively cracked the code on the Thaddeus-Libertarian nexus in California. We assert that further research in this domain might amount to merely beating a 'Thad' horse – the one with a keen awareness of its voter demographics!

In the spirit of statistical and pun-filled closure, we declare that the Thaddeus-Libertarian connection has been thoroughly plumbed, and no 'Thad'itional research is required in this area. Thank you for joining us on this delightful and statistically significant journey.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of academic journals. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding research, scientific, or academic journal that would publish a paper entited The Thaddeus Touch: A Sordid Tale of Libertarian Electoral Swagger in California. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Political Shenanigans


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of nonprofit research organizations and associations. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding nonprofit, academic, or scientific association or organization that would sponsor research that resulted in a paper entited The Thaddeus Touch: A Sordid Tale of Libertarian Electoral Swagger in California. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for Whimsical Political Research


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled The Thaddeus Touch: A Sordid Tale of Libertarian Electoral Swagger in California with an abstract of The correlation between the popularity of the first name "Thaddeus" and votes for the Libertarian presidential candidate in California has long intrigued researchers and pun enthusiasts alike. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse, our study delved into this enigmatic relationship from 1980 to 2020. Our analysis revealed a resounding correlation coefficient of 0.9357802 and p < 0.01, showcasing a strong statistical tie-in and leaving us wondering, "Is California really Thad-title for Libertarian success?"
Dad Joke Alert: "Why did the Libertarian candidate want to connect with Thaddeus? Because they thought it might add a 'Thad' of electoral luck!"
The findings extend beyond mere coincidence, with implications that could alter the political landscape. With every notable increase in the number of newborn Thaddeuses in California, a surge in votes for the Libertarian party was predictably observed. This poses the tantalizing prospect of using the popularity of names as a political forecasting tool. After all, it seems a "Thad" in the name brings a "Thad" more votes for the Libertarians. Our research offers a whimsical lens through which to view the baffling world of electoral dynamics, leaving us with a lingering question: "Is it the 'Thaddeus Touch' or the 'Libertarian Lure' that drives this statistical affinity?"
Dad Joke Alert: "What do you get when you combine political statistics and the name Thaddeus? A 'Thad' correlation coefficient, of course!

ChatGPT:

"Thaddeus popularity, Libertarian votes, California, electoral analysis, US Social Security Administration data, MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Libertarian party success, political forecasting, name popularity and voting patterns"

*There is a bunch of Python happening behind the scenes to turn this prompt sequence into a PDF.



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Data details

Popularity of the first name Thaddeus
Detailed data title: Babies of all sexes born in the US named Thaddeus
Source: US Social Security Administration
See what else correlates with Popularity of the first name Thaddeus

Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California
Detailed data title: Total votes cast for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California
Source: MIT Election Data and Science Lab, Harvard Dataverse
See what else correlates with Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California

Correlation r = 0.9357802 (Pearson correlation coefficient)
Correlation is a measure of how much the variables move together. If it is 0.99, when one goes up the other goes up. If it is 0.02, the connection is very weak or non-existent. If it is -0.99, then when one goes up the other goes down. If it is 1.00, you probably messed up your correlation function.

r2 = 0.8756847 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 87.6% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Popularity of the first name Thaddeus) over the 11 years from 1980 through 2020.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 2.3E-5. 0.0000229880989831992450000000
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme. More specifically the p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme if we had only tested one pair of variables one time.

But I am a p-villain. I absolutely did not test only one pair of variables one time. I correlated hundreds of millions of pairs of variables. I threw boatloads of data into an industrial-sized blender to find this correlation.

Who is going to stop me? p-value reporting doesn't require me to report how many calculations I had to go through in order to find a low p-value!
On average, you will find a correaltion as strong as 0.94 in 0.0023% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 43,501 random variables You don't actually need 43 thousand variables to find a correlation like this one. You can also correlate variables that are not independent. I do this a lot.

p-value calculations are useful for understanding the probability of a result happening by chance. They are most useful when used to highlight the risk of a fluke outcome. For example, if you calculate a p-value of 0.30, the risk that the result is a fluke is high. It is good to know that! But there are lots of ways to get a p-value of less than 0.01, as evidenced by this project.

Just to be clear: I'm being completely transparent about the calculations. There is no math trickery. This is just how statistics shakes out when you calculate hundreds of millions of random correlations.
with the same 10 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 10 because we have two variables measured over a period of 11 years. It's just the number of years minus ( the number of variables minus one ), which in this case simplifies to the number of years minus one.
you would randomly expect to find a correlation as strong as this one.

[ 0.77, 0.98 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
The confidence interval is an estimate the range of the value of the correlation coefficient, using the correlation itself as an input. The values are meant to be the low and high end of the correlation coefficient with 95% confidence.

This one is a bit more complciated than the other calculations, but I include it because many people have been pushing for confidence intervals instead of p-value calculations (for example: NEJM. However, if you are dredging data, you can reliably find yourself in the 5%. That's my goal!


All values for the years included above: If I were being very sneaky, I could trim years from the beginning or end of the datasets to increase the correlation on some pairs of variables. I don't do that because there are already plenty of correlations in my database without monkeying with the years.

Still, sometimes one of the variables has more years of data available than the other. This page only shows the overlapping years. To see all the years, click on "See what else correlates with..." link above.
19801984198819921996200020042008201220162020
Popularity of the first name Thaddeus (Babies born)267175248250216218189211231416297
Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California (Total votes)14839049951701054813973600455205016567582143221478500187895




Why this works

  1. Data dredging: I have 25,153 variables in my database. I compare all these variables against each other to find ones that randomly match up. That's 632,673,409 correlation calculations! This is called “data dredging.” Instead of starting with a hypothesis and testing it, I instead abused the data to see what correlations shake out. It’s a dangerous way to go about analysis, because any sufficiently large dataset will yield strong correlations completely at random.
  2. Lack of causal connection: There is probably Because these pages are automatically generated, it's possible that the two variables you are viewing are in fact causually related. I take steps to prevent the obvious ones from showing on the site (I don't let data about the weather in one city correlate with the weather in a neighboring city, for example), but sometimes they still pop up. If they are related, cool! You found a loophole.
    no direct connection between these variables, despite what the AI says above. This is exacerbated by the fact that I used "Years" as the base variable. Lots of things happen in a year that are not related to each other! Most studies would use something like "one person" in stead of "one year" to be the "thing" studied.
  3. Observations not independent: For many variables, sequential years are not independent of each other. If a population of people is continuously doing something every day, there is no reason to think they would suddenly change how they are doing that thing on January 1. A simple Personally I don't find any p-value calculation to be 'simple,' but you know what I mean.
    p-value calculation does not take this into account, so mathematically it appears less probable than it really is.
  4. Y-axis doesn't start at zero: I truncated the Y-axes of the graph above. I also used a line graph, which makes the visual connection stand out more than it deserves. Nothing against line graphs. They are great at telling a story when you have linear data! But visually it is deceptive because the only data is at the points on the graph, not the lines on the graph. In between each point, the data could have been doing anything. Like going for a random walk by itself!
    Mathematically what I showed is true, but it is intentionally misleading. Below is the same chart but with both Y-axes starting at zero.




Try it yourself

You can calculate the values on this page on your own! Try running the Python code to see the calculation results. Step 1: Download and install Python on your computer.

Step 2: Open a plaintext editor like Notepad and paste the code below into it.

Step 3: Save the file as "calculate_correlation.py" in a place you will remember, like your desktop. Copy the file location to your clipboard. On Windows, you can right-click the file and click "Properties," and then copy what comes after "Location:" As an example, on my computer the location is "C:\Users\tyler\Desktop"

Step 4: Open a command line window. For example, by pressing start and typing "cmd" and them pressing enter.

Step 5: Install the required modules by typing "pip install numpy", then pressing enter, then typing "pip install scipy", then pressing enter.

Step 6: Navigate to the location where you saved the Python file by using the "cd" command. For example, I would type "cd C:\Users\tyler\Desktop" and push enter.

Step 7: Run the Python script by typing "python calculate_correlation.py"

If you run into any issues, I suggest asking ChatGPT to walk you through installing Python and running the code below on your system. Try this question:

"Walk me through installing Python on my computer to run a script that uses scipy and numpy. Go step-by-step and ask me to confirm before moving on. Start by asking me questions about my operating system so that you know how to proceed. Assume I want the simplest installation with the latest version of Python and that I do not currently have any of the necessary elements installed. Remember to only give me one step per response and confirm I have done it before proceeding."


# These modules make it easier to perform the calculation
import numpy as np
from scipy import stats

# We'll define a function that we can call to return the correlation calculations
def calculate_correlation(array1, array2):

    # Calculate Pearson correlation coefficient and p-value
    correlation, p_value = stats.pearsonr(array1, array2)

    # Calculate R-squared as the square of the correlation coefficient
    r_squared = correlation**2

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([267,175,248,250,216,218,189,211,231,416,297,])
array_2 = np.array([148390,49951,70105,48139,73600,45520,50165,67582,143221,478500,187895,])
array_1_name = "Popularity of the first name Thaddeus"
array_2_name = "Votes for the Libertarian Presidential candidate in California"

# Perform the calculation
print(f"Calculating the correlation between {array_1_name} and {array_2_name}...")
correlation, r_squared, p_value = calculate_correlation(array_1, array_2)

# Print the results
print("Correlation Coefficient:", correlation)
print("R-squared:", r_squared)
print("P-value:", p_value)



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You do not need to attribute "the spurious correlations website," and you don't even need to link here if you don't want to. I don't gain anything from pageviews. There are no ads on this site, there is nothing for sale, and I am not for hire.

For the record, I am just one person. Tyler Vigen, he/him/his. I do have degrees, but they should not go after my name unless you want to annoy my wife. If that is your goal, then go ahead and cite me as "Tyler Vigen, A.A. A.A.S. B.A. J.D." Otherwise it is just "Tyler Vigen."

When spoken, my last name is pronounced "vegan," like I don't eat meat.

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Correlation ID: 4415 · Black Variable ID: 3584 · Red Variable ID: 25955
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