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Spurious correlation #2,135 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Butter consumption and the second variable is The number of paralegals in South Carolina.  The chart goes from 2003 to 2020, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

It all comes down to the slippery slope of regulation. As butter consumption in South Carolina increased, so did the number of individuals seeking legal protection against potential butter-related injuries, like slippery fingers and toast malpractice. This led to a higher demand for paralegals in the state, as they were butter equipped to handle the greasy legal proceedings. The correlation is udderly undeniable - it's a case of dairy deliciously influencing the legal landscape.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Prompt: Create an image inspired by a scene from Skyrim, portraying a paralegal in a quaint South Carolina kitchen. The paralegal, wearing professional attire, spreads creamy, yellow butter on warm, freshly baked cornbread while reviewing legal documents. The aroma of butter and the focused energy of the paralegal combine to create a harmonious scene. The setting should emphasize a cozy kitchen ambiance with subtle elements from the Skyrim world, such as rustic furnishings or hints of fantasy in the surroundings. 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: Butter consumption and The number of paralegals in South Carolina. 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: Psychedelic Sci-fi fantacy An image that looks like it is a scene from a Pixar movie Cute cartoon A scene from Skyrim
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 Butter consumption and The number of paralegals in South Carolina together. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a quaint kitchen in South Carolina, a jar of creamy, yellow butter sits next to a stack of legal documents. A paralegal, wearing a professional attire, spreads a generous amount of butter on a slice of warm, freshly baked cornbread while reviewing the papers. The gentle aroma of butter and the focused energy of the paralegal combine to create a harmonious scene.

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: In a quaint kitchen in South Carolina, a jar of creamy, yellow butter sits next to a stack of legal documents. A paralegal, wearing a professional attire, spreads a generous amount of butter on a slice of warm, freshly baked cornbread while reviewing the papers. The gentle aroma of butter and the focused energy of the paralegal combine to create a harmonious scene. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Prompt: Create an image inspired by a scene from Skyrim, portraying a paralegal in a quaint South Carolina kitchen. The paralegal, wearing professional attire, spreads creamy, yellow butter on warm, freshly baked cornbread while reviewing legal documents. The aroma of butter and the focused energy of the paralegal combine to create a harmonious scene. The setting should emphasize a cozy kitchen ambiance with subtle elements from the Skyrim world, such as rustic furnishings or hints of fantasy in the surroundings.

*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 an increase in Butter consumption caused The number of paralegals in South Carolina to increase. Make it feel plausible.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Spreading the Facts: The Butter-Paralegal Relationship in South Carolina

The Journal of Dairy Law and Butter Studies

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 goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 Butter consumption and The number of paralegals in South Carolina. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Make the title punny if you can come up with clever pun. If not, just make it sound clever.

Your research team used data from USDA and Bureau of Larbor Statistics to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.9514679 and p < 0.01 for 2003 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]]
Spreading the Facts: The Butter-Paralegal Relationship in South Carolina

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we explored the uncharted territory of the relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the beautiful state of South Carolina. Utilizing data from the USDA and Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team embarked on a dairy-filled journey to shed light on this pressing matter. After crunching the numbers, we uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9514679 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years 2003 to 2020.

Our findings not only reveal a strong statistical connection between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina but also open up a realm of buttery possibilities for interdisciplinary research. While skeptics may scoff at the notion of dairy products influencing legal professions, our results cannot be margarined. This study not only provokes thought but also churns up laughter at the unexpected correlation between butter and paralegals. Butter be-ware, for our results may just spread like wildfire in the research community.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 Butter consumption and The number of paralegals in South Carolina. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Spreading the Facts: The Butter-Paralegal Relationship in South Carolina

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we explored the uncharted territory of the relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the beautiful state of South Carolina. Utilizing data from the USDA and Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team embarked on a dairy-filled journey to shed light on this pressing matter. After crunching the numbers, we uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9514679 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years 2003 to 2020.

Our findings not only reveal a strong statistical connection between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina but also open up a realm of buttery possibilities for interdisciplinary research. While skeptics may scoff at the notion of dairy products influencing legal professions, our results cannot be margarined. This study not only provokes thought but also churns up laughter at the unexpected correlation between butter and paralegals. Butter be-ware, for our results may just spread like wildfire in the research community.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
INTRODUCTION

The intersection of culinary habits and labor market trends has long been a topic of interest for researchers seeking to untangle the complex web of societal influences. In this study, we set out to investigate the intriguing correlation between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the palmetto state of South Carolina. While it may seem like an odd pairing, our hypothesis was bolstered by anecdotal evidence from late-night infomercials, suggesting that butter and paralegals might be more entwined than previously thought.

This study represents a gouda opportunity to delve into unexplored territory and challenge conventional wisdom. The dearth of existing literature on this topic only fueled our enthusiasm, as we eagerly embarked on this research journey, armed with spreadsheets and statistical software. We were determined to give this topic the attention it kneaded, focusing not only on the quantitative analysis but also on the qualitative nuances of butter's role in shaping the legal landscape.

As we delved into our data, we couldn't help but marvel at the auspicious timing of our investigation. The years 2003 to 2020 unfurled before us like a freshly baked croissant, allowing us to capture the ebb and flow of butter consumption and the burgeoning paralegal population in South Carolina. From the creamy highs of heightened butter sales to the smooth trajectories of paralegal workforce expansion, our findings promised to unveil a correlation that was, dare we say, butterly fascinating.

Despite the initial skepticism from colleagues who branded our research as "butter nonsense," we remained undeterred. Armed with our data and a healthy dose of curiosity, we eagerly anticipated the moment when our results would prove to be more than just margarine of error. As we dived deeper into the statistical abyss, we couldn't ignore the irony that our investigation brought new meaning to the phrase "buttering up the legal profession."

Our study not only seeks to unravel the multifaceted relationship between butter and paralegals but also aims to pave the whey for future interdisciplinary inquiries. In doing so, we hope to churn out a greater appreciation for the often-overlooked influence of dairy products on occupational dynamics. So, grab your toast and legal briefs as we embark on this udderly illuminating journey into the heart of South Carolina's butter-paralegal relationship. Butter 'believe it or not,' the results may just spread far and wide in the academic community.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 Butter consumption and The number of paralegals in South Carolina. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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 name some cartoons and childrens' shows that you watched that are related to the topic.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Spreading the Facts: The Butter-Paralegal Relationship in South Carolina

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we explored the uncharted territory of the relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the beautiful state of South Carolina. Utilizing data from the USDA and Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team embarked on a dairy-filled journey to shed light on this pressing matter. After crunching the numbers, we uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9514679 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years 2003 to 2020.

Our findings not only reveal a strong statistical connection between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina but also open up a realm of buttery possibilities for interdisciplinary research. While skeptics may scoff at the notion of dairy products influencing legal professions, our results cannot be margarined. This study not only provokes thought but also churns up laughter at the unexpected correlation between butter and paralegals. Butter be-ware, for our results may just spread like wildfire in the research community.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The intersection of culinary habits and labor market trends has long been a topic of interest for researchers seeking to untangle the complex web of societal influences. In this study, we set out to investigate the intriguing correlation between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the palmetto state of South Carolina. While it may seem like an odd pairing, our hypothesis was bolstered by anecdotal evidence from late-night infomercials, suggesting that butter and paralegals might be more entwined than previously thought.
This study represents a gouda opportunity to delve into unexplored territory and challenge conventional wisdom. The dearth of existing literature on this topic only fueled our enthusiasm, as we eagerly embarked on this research journey, armed with spreadsheets and statistical software. We were determined to give this topic the attention it kneaded, focusing not only on the quantitative analysis but also on the qualitative nuances of butter's role in shaping the legal landscape.
As we delved into our data, we couldn't help but marvel at the auspicious timing of our investigation. The years 2003 to 2020 unfurled before us like a freshly baked croissant, allowing us to capture the ebb and flow of butter consumption and the burgeoning paralegal population in South Carolina. From the creamy highs of heightened butter sales to the smooth trajectories of paralegal workforce expansion, our findings promised to unveil a correlation that was, dare we say, butterly fascinating.
Despite the initial skepticism from colleagues who branded our research as "butter nonsense," we remained undeterred. Armed with our data and a healthy dose of curiosity, we eagerly anticipated the moment when our results would prove to be more than just margarine of error. As we dived deeper into the statistical abyss, we couldn't ignore the irony that our investigation brought new meaning to the phrase "buttering up the legal profession."
Our study not only seeks to unravel the multifaceted relationship between butter and paralegals but also aims to pave the whey for future interdisciplinary inquiries. In doing so, we hope to churn out a greater appreciation for the often-overlooked influence of dairy products on occupational dynamics. So, grab your toast and legal briefs as we embark on this udderly illuminating journey into the heart of South Carolina's butter-paralegal relationship. Butter 'believe it or not,' the results may just spread far and wide in the academic community.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in South Carolina has long been a topic of rampant speculation and heated debate in the culinary and legal research communities. Scholars such as Smith and Doe have previously delved into the intricate ties between dietary patterns and occupational dynamics, though their focus was often on more conventional pairings such as coffee and productivity or donuts and law enforcement. However, the paucity of research directly addressing the butter-paralegal nexus has left this captivating correlation largely unexplored.

In "Land of Palmettos: An Economic Analysis of South Carolina," Smith and Jones touch upon the economic landscape of South Carolina but unfortunately fail to mention the role of butter in shaping its labor force. Similarly, Doe's seminal work "Legal Eagles: The Evolution of Paralegalism in the Southern States" provides a comprehensive overview of paralegal trends but overlooks the potential influence of butter on the profession. It seems that the scholarly community has, until now, turned a blind eye to the buttery implications for legal occupations in the palmetto state.

Turning to non-fiction sources more tangentially related to the subject matter, the seminal work "Butter: A Rich History" by Khosrova offers a comprehensive exploration of the cultural, economic, and gastronomic impact of butter. While the book does not explicitly address its influence on legal professions in specific states, it does provide a flavorful backdrop for understanding the broader implications of our study. Furthermore, "The Paralegal's Handbook" by Rutherford and the compelling "Butter Side Up: How Dairy Products Shape Our Lives" by Green offer glimpses into the realms of paralegalism and dairy products, respectively. While their connections to South Carolina and the specific dynamics of butter consumption among paralegals remain tangential, they serve as a rich source of inspiration for our research endeavors, and perhaps even a few butter-related puns to sprinkle into our paper.

In the realm of fiction, the captivating world of legal thrillers and culinary adventures offers a whimsical departure from the rigor of academic literature. Works such as John Grisham's "The Pelican Brief" and Dashiell Hammett's "The Thin Man" spark the imagination, weaving tales of legal intrigue and culinary delights. While these novels may not directly tackle the titular juxtaposition of butter and paralegals, they serve as a reminder of the whimsical connections that exist between seemingly disparate realms.

On a more lighthearted note, cartoons and children's shows have also depicted legal professionals and gastronomic indulgences in ways that, while often fantastical, may offer valuable insights in a more whimsical vein. Shows such as "Scooby-Doo" and "Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law" approach legal themes with a dose of levity, while the adventures of SpongeBob SquarePants and his escapades at the Krusty Krab serve as a testament to the far-reaching influence of culinary pursuits. Though these sources may not provide direct empirical evidence for our study, they offer a delightful reprieve from the empirical rigor of academic research—and who knows, they might just churn out a kernel of insight or two amidst the whimsy.

As we sift through the existing literature, it becomes abundantly clear that the relationship between butter consumption and paralegals in South Carolina remains an untapped well of potential insights and, quite possibly, buttery surprises. Indeed, our study stands as a maître d'oeuvre, ready to serve a delectable dish of empirical findings that may just butter up the academic community. With this grounding in preexisting research, we now proceed to unveil the findings of our empirical investigation, armed with spreadsheets, statistical analyses, and quite possibly a few dairy-inspired metaphors.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 Butter consumption and The number of paralegals in South Carolina. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from USDA and Bureau of Larbor Statistics . You used data from 2003 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]]
Spreading the Facts: The Butter-Paralegal Relationship in South Carolina

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we explored the uncharted territory of the relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the beautiful state of South Carolina. Utilizing data from the USDA and Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team embarked on a dairy-filled journey to shed light on this pressing matter. After crunching the numbers, we uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9514679 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years 2003 to 2020.

Our findings not only reveal a strong statistical connection between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina but also open up a realm of buttery possibilities for interdisciplinary research. While skeptics may scoff at the notion of dairy products influencing legal professions, our results cannot be margarined. This study not only provokes thought but also churns up laughter at the unexpected correlation between butter and paralegals. Butter be-ware, for our results may just spread like wildfire in the research community.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The intersection of culinary habits and labor market trends has long been a topic of interest for researchers seeking to untangle the complex web of societal influences. In this study, we set out to investigate the intriguing correlation between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the palmetto state of South Carolina. While it may seem like an odd pairing, our hypothesis was bolstered by anecdotal evidence from late-night infomercials, suggesting that butter and paralegals might be more entwined than previously thought.
This study represents a gouda opportunity to delve into unexplored territory and challenge conventional wisdom. The dearth of existing literature on this topic only fueled our enthusiasm, as we eagerly embarked on this research journey, armed with spreadsheets and statistical software. We were determined to give this topic the attention it kneaded, focusing not only on the quantitative analysis but also on the qualitative nuances of butter's role in shaping the legal landscape.
As we delved into our data, we couldn't help but marvel at the auspicious timing of our investigation. The years 2003 to 2020 unfurled before us like a freshly baked croissant, allowing us to capture the ebb and flow of butter consumption and the burgeoning paralegal population in South Carolina. From the creamy highs of heightened butter sales to the smooth trajectories of paralegal workforce expansion, our findings promised to unveil a correlation that was, dare we say, butterly fascinating.
Despite the initial skepticism from colleagues who branded our research as "butter nonsense," we remained undeterred. Armed with our data and a healthy dose of curiosity, we eagerly anticipated the moment when our results would prove to be more than just margarine of error. As we dived deeper into the statistical abyss, we couldn't ignore the irony that our investigation brought new meaning to the phrase "buttering up the legal profession."
Our study not only seeks to unravel the multifaceted relationship between butter and paralegals but also aims to pave the whey for future interdisciplinary inquiries. In doing so, we hope to churn out a greater appreciation for the often-overlooked influence of dairy products on occupational dynamics. So, grab your toast and legal briefs as we embark on this udderly illuminating journey into the heart of South Carolina's butter-paralegal relationship. Butter 'believe it or not,' the results may just spread far and wide in the academic community.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

METHODOLOGY

To peel back the layers of the butter-paralegal relationship in South Carolina, we employed a multi-faceted approach, blending data collection, statistical analysis, and a sprinkle of culinary curiosity. Our primary sources of data were the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which served as our virtual dairy farms for harvesting butter consumption data and as repositories of paralegal workforce statistics, respectively.

We wielded the mighty spreadsheet as our trusty spatula, meticulously gathering annual butter consumption figures from 2003 to 2020 from the USDA's dairy product reports. For the paralegal workforce data, we rustled up occupational employment statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' comprehensive archives, spanning the same time frame. Rounding up this data proved no mean feat, as we navigated through internet haystacks in search of the proverbial buttery needle.

With our trove of data nestled snugly in our cyber-barn, we invoked the spirits of statistical software such as SPSS and SAS to churn out descriptive and inferential analyses. Through the magic of correlation and regression analyses, we sought to unveil the not-so-lurking underbelly of the butter-paralegal connection, all the while resisting the temptation to dub our findings as nothing more than "creamed correlations."

To ensure the robustness of our analysis, we used lagged variable models, accounting for potential time lags between changes in butter consumption and shifts in the paralegal workforce. We also cross-validated our results using Monte Carlo simulations, ensuring that our findings weren't simply a fluke influenced by the capricious whims of Lady Luck.

In the spirit of interdisciplinary collaboration, we liberally seasoned our quantitative data with qualitative insights, engaging in discussions that buttered up the scholarly discourse. A swarm of cheese-laden meetings and virtual debates saw us wrestling with the implications of our findings, enriching our analysis with the myriad flavors of experiential knowledge.

We acknowledge the potential limitations of our methodology. While our data sources were diverse and comprehensive, the inherent constraints of retrospective data collection and the occasional data churn posed challenges that we couldn't whisk away entirely. Nevertheless, armed with a healthy dose of skepticism and a dollop of statistical rigor, we embraced the joys and pitfalls of investigating this rather unconventional research question.

As we set out on our odyssey of butter and paralegals, our approach married the precision of statistical analysis with the unabashed curiosity of culinary exploration. Our methodology, thus, reflects a simultaneous quest for empirical truth and a sprinkle of whimsy, reminding us that unconventional pairings can yield unexpectedly delectable insights. With ladle in hand and spreadsheet at the ready, we ventured forth into the heart of South Carolina's buttery legal landscape, unearthing correlations that are bound to melt the hearts of skeptics and aficionados alike.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 Butter consumption and The number of paralegals in South Carolina. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from USDA and Bureau of Larbor Statistics .

For the time period 2003 to 2020, you found a correlation 0.9514679, r-squared of 0.9052912, 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]]
Spreading the Facts: The Butter-Paralegal Relationship in South Carolina

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we explored the uncharted territory of the relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the beautiful state of South Carolina. Utilizing data from the USDA and Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team embarked on a dairy-filled journey to shed light on this pressing matter. After crunching the numbers, we uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9514679 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years 2003 to 2020.

Our findings not only reveal a strong statistical connection between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina but also open up a realm of buttery possibilities for interdisciplinary research. While skeptics may scoff at the notion of dairy products influencing legal professions, our results cannot be margarined. This study not only provokes thought but also churns up laughter at the unexpected correlation between butter and paralegals. Butter be-ware, for our results may just spread like wildfire in the research community.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
INTRODUCTION
The intersection of culinary habits and labor market trends has long been a topic of interest for researchers seeking to untangle the complex web of societal influences. In this study, we set out to investigate the intriguing correlation between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the palmetto state of South Carolina. While it may seem like an odd pairing, our hypothesis was bolstered by anecdotal evidence from late-night infomercials, suggesting that butter and paralegals might be more entwined than previously thought.
This study represents a gouda opportunity to delve into unexplored territory and challenge conventional wisdom. The dearth of existing literature on this topic only fueled our enthusiasm, as we eagerly embarked on this research journey, armed with spreadsheets and statistical software. We were determined to give this topic the attention it kneaded, focusing not only on the quantitative analysis but also on the qualitative nuances of butter's role in shaping the legal landscape.
As we delved into our data, we couldn't help but marvel at the auspicious timing of our investigation. The years 2003 to 2020 unfurled before us like a freshly baked croissant, allowing us to capture the ebb and flow of butter consumption and the burgeoning paralegal population in South Carolina. From the creamy highs of heightened butter sales to the smooth trajectories of paralegal workforce expansion, our findings promised to unveil a correlation that was, dare we say, butterly fascinating.
Despite the initial skepticism from colleagues who branded our research as "butter nonsense," we remained undeterred. Armed with our data and a healthy dose of curiosity, we eagerly anticipated the moment when our results would prove to be more than just margarine of error. As we dived deeper into the statistical abyss, we couldn't ignore the irony that our investigation brought new meaning to the phrase "buttering up the legal profession."
Our study not only seeks to unravel the multifaceted relationship between butter and paralegals but also aims to pave the whey for future interdisciplinary inquiries. In doing so, we hope to churn out a greater appreciation for the often-overlooked influence of dairy products on occupational dynamics. So, grab your toast and legal briefs as we embark on this udderly illuminating journey into the heart of South Carolina's butter-paralegal relationship. Butter 'believe it or not,' the results may just spread far and wide in the academic community.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The statistical analysis of the data collected from the USDA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics yielded a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.9514679 between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in South Carolina for the years 2003 to 2020. This strong positive correlation suggests a noteworthy association between the delectable dairy product and the legal support profession within the state.

Furthermore, the coefficient of determination (r-squared) was calculated to be 0.9052912, indicating that approximately 90.5% of the variability in the number of paralegals can be explained by changes in butter consumption. Quite a butterly impressive percentage, if I may say so myself.

The calculated p-value of less than 0.01 indicates a high level of significance, strengthening the validity of the observed correlation. In other words, the likelihood of this correlation occurring by chance is as rare as finding a vegan at a butter-churning competition in Wisconsin.

Additionally, the scatterplot (Fig. 1) included in this analysis visually depicts the strong positive relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in South Carolina. The plot resembles a Jackson Pollock painting, with its scattered buttery points encapsulating the essence of this unexpected correlation.

In essence, our findings not only confirm the presence of a robust statistical connection between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina, but also unveil a creamy layer of intrigue for further exploration. These results are not just the cream of the crop; they are the butter on our academic bread, if you will.

Next, we will delve into the richer implications of this correlation, shedding light on how this unanticipated relationship holds promise for interdisciplinary investigations and inviting insightful discussions within the academic community. Stick around for the brimming buttery insights that await in the following sections.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 Butter consumption and The number of paralegals in South Carolina. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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]]
Spreading the Facts: The Butter-Paralegal Relationship in South Carolina

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we explored the uncharted territory of the relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the beautiful state of South Carolina. Utilizing data from the USDA and Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team embarked on a dairy-filled journey to shed light on this pressing matter. After crunching the numbers, we uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9514679 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years 2003 to 2020.

Our findings not only reveal a strong statistical connection between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina but also open up a realm of buttery possibilities for interdisciplinary research. While skeptics may scoff at the notion of dairy products influencing legal professions, our results cannot be margarined. This study not only provokes thought but also churns up laughter at the unexpected correlation between butter and paralegals. Butter be-ware, for our results may just spread like wildfire in the research community.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in South Carolina has long been a topic of rampant speculation and heated debate in the culinary and legal research communities. Scholars such as Smith and Doe have previously delved into the intricate ties between dietary patterns and occupational dynamics, though their focus was often on more conventional pairings such as coffee and productivity or donuts and law enforcement. However, the paucity of research directly addressing the butter-paralegal nexus has left this captivating correlation largely unexplored.
In "Land of Palmettos: An Economic Analysis of South Carolina," Smith and Jones touch upon the economic landscape of South Carolina but unfortunately fail to mention the role of butter in shaping its labor force. Similarly, Doe's seminal work "Legal Eagles: The Evolution of Paralegalism in the Southern States" provides a comprehensive overview of paralegal trends but overlooks the potential influence of butter on the profession. It seems that the scholarly community has, until now, turned a blind eye to the buttery implications for legal occupations in the palmetto state.
Turning to non-fiction sources more tangentially related to the subject matter, the seminal work "Butter: A Rich History" by Khosrova offers a comprehensive exploration of the cultural, economic, and gastronomic impact of butter. While the book does not explicitly address its influence on legal professions in specific states, it does provide a flavorful backdrop for understanding the broader implications of our study. Furthermore, "The Paralegal's Handbook" by Rutherford and the compelling "Butter Side Up: How Dairy Products Shape Our Lives" by Green offer glimpses into the realms of paralegalism and dairy products, respectively. While their connections to South Carolina and the specific dynamics of butter consumption among paralegals remain tangential, they serve as a rich source of inspiration for our research endeavors, and perhaps even a few butter-related puns to sprinkle into our paper.
In the realm of fiction, the captivating world of legal thrillers and culinary adventures offers a whimsical departure from the rigor of academic literature. Works such as John Grisham's "The Pelican Brief" and Dashiell Hammett's "The Thin Man" spark the imagination, weaving tales of legal intrigue and culinary delights. While these novels may not directly tackle the titular juxtaposition of butter and paralegals, they serve as a reminder of the whimsical connections that exist between seemingly disparate realms.
On a more lighthearted note, cartoons and children's shows have also depicted legal professionals and gastronomic indulgences in ways that, while often fantastical, may offer valuable insights in a more whimsical vein. Shows such as "Scooby-Doo" and "Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law" approach legal themes with a dose of levity, while the adventures of SpongeBob SquarePants and his escapades at the Krusty Krab serve as a testament to the far-reaching influence of culinary pursuits. Though these sources may not provide direct empirical evidence for our study, they offer a delightful reprieve from the empirical rigor of academic research—and who knows, they might just churn out a kernel of insight or two amidst the whimsy.
As we sift through the existing literature, it becomes abundantly clear that the relationship between butter consumption and paralegals in South Carolina remains an untapped well of potential insights and, quite possibly, buttery surprises. Indeed, our study stands as a maître d'oeuvre, ready to serve a delectable dish of empirical findings that may just butter up the academic community. With this grounding in preexisting research, we now proceed to unveil the findings of our empirical investigation, armed with spreadsheets, statistical analyses, and quite possibly a few dairy-inspired metaphors.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the data collected from the USDA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics yielded a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.9514679 between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in South Carolina for the years 2003 to 2020. This strong positive correlation suggests a noteworthy association between the delectable dairy product and the legal support profession within the state.
Furthermore, the coefficient of determination (r-squared) was calculated to be 0.9052912, indicating that approximately 90.5% of the variability in the number of paralegals can be explained by changes in butter consumption. Quite a butterly impressive percentage, if I may say so myself.
The calculated p-value of less than 0.01 indicates a high level of significance, strengthening the validity of the observed correlation. In other words, the likelihood of this correlation occurring by chance is as rare as finding a vegan at a butter-churning competition in Wisconsin.
Additionally, the scatterplot (Fig. 1) included in this analysis visually depicts the strong positive relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in South Carolina. The plot resembles a Jackson Pollock painting, with its scattered buttery points encapsulating the essence of this unexpected correlation.
In essence, our findings not only confirm the presence of a robust statistical connection between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina, but also unveil a creamy layer of intrigue for further exploration. These results are not just the cream of the crop; they are the butter on our academic bread, if you will.
Next, we will delve into the richer implications of this correlation, shedding light on how this unanticipated relationship holds promise for interdisciplinary investigations and inviting insightful discussions within the academic community. Stick around for the brimming buttery insights that await in the following sections.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our findings, as rich and satisfying as a well-made buttercream frosting, bolster and indeed compound upon the prior research that has lightly buttered the academic community's toast with the prospect of an unexpected correlation between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina. When we revisit the whimsical nuggets of previous scholarly work, we cannot help but marvel at the strangely serendipitous parallels that emerge between the jocular and the rigorous.

Recollecting the playful references to legal thrillers and culinary adventures in the literature review, one might almost be led to believe that the incorporeal specter of John Grisham himself was guiding our analysis. Indeed, as though plucked from the pages of a legal whodunit, our statistical inquiry has unmasked a compelling relationship that is as beguiling as it is veritable. The unconventional nexus between butter and paralegals may seem as improbable as a dairy cow moonlighting as a court stenographer, but the data speaks for itself—albeit without the need for a sworn statement.

As we contemplate the correlation coefficient of 0.9514679 and the diminutive p-value that mirrors Cinderella's fleeting carriage ride, it becomes increasingly apparent that this correlation is no mere flight of fancy. The coefficient of determination, with its impressive magnitude of 0.9052912, serves as a solid-as-a-buttery-biscuit testament to the substantial explanatory power of butter consumption in predicting changes in the paralegal workforce. In essence, the empirical examination of butter's influence on legal support occupations has churned out results that are as persuasive as a plea bargain struck over a plate of warm biscuits.

The visual representation of our findings in the form of the scatterplot further underscores the robustness of the observed association, painting a portrait of buttery congruence that is as undeniable as a fingerprint left in a stick of softened butter. This unexpected correlation, much like an unexpected pat of butter on a diner's pancakes, has sizzled its way into the realm of empirical reality, defying conventional expectations and adding a delightful dash of intrigue to the scholarly menu.

With these results, we have not only enriched the academic landscape with a creamy dollop of empirical evidence but have also seeded the fertile ground of interdisciplinary enquiry. The unsuspected entwinement of butter and paralegals in South Carolina beckons to legal scholars, dairy aficionados, and statisticians alike, offering a rich tableau for further exploration and debate. Our study, much like a generous slathering of butter on a warm slice of bread, serves to enliven academic discourse and nourish the appetite for flavorful investigations that transcend traditional paradigms.

Stay tuned for the unspooling of further insights and implications in subsequent deliberations, as we savor the savory implications of this delightful correlation. After all, as South Carolinians are keenly aware, there's nothing more satisfying than a buttery surprise—whether it's in a culinary creation or an unexpected statistical relationship.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 Butter consumption and The number of paralegals in South Carolina. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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]]
Spreading the Facts: The Butter-Paralegal Relationship in South Carolina

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we explored the uncharted territory of the relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the beautiful state of South Carolina. Utilizing data from the USDA and Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team embarked on a dairy-filled journey to shed light on this pressing matter. After crunching the numbers, we uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9514679 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years 2003 to 2020.

Our findings not only reveal a strong statistical connection between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina but also open up a realm of buttery possibilities for interdisciplinary research. While skeptics may scoff at the notion of dairy products influencing legal professions, our results cannot be margarined. This study not only provokes thought but also churns up laughter at the unexpected correlation between butter and paralegals. Butter be-ware, for our results may just spread like wildfire in the research community.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The intersection of culinary habits and labor market trends has long been a topic of interest for researchers seeking to untangle the complex web of societal influences. In this study, we set out to investigate the intriguing correlation between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the palmetto state of South Carolina. While it may seem like an odd pairing, our hypothesis was bolstered by anecdotal evidence from late-night infomercials, suggesting that butter and paralegals might be more entwined than previously thought.
This study represents a gouda opportunity to delve into unexplored territory and challenge conventional wisdom. The dearth of existing literature on this topic only fueled our enthusiasm, as we eagerly embarked on this research journey, armed with spreadsheets and statistical software. We were determined to give this topic the attention it kneaded, focusing not only on the quantitative analysis but also on the qualitative nuances of butter's role in shaping the legal landscape.
As we delved into our data, we couldn't help but marvel at the auspicious timing of our investigation. The years 2003 to 2020 unfurled before us like a freshly baked croissant, allowing us to capture the ebb and flow of butter consumption and the burgeoning paralegal population in South Carolina. From the creamy highs of heightened butter sales to the smooth trajectories of paralegal workforce expansion, our findings promised to unveil a correlation that was, dare we say, butterly fascinating.
Despite the initial skepticism from colleagues who branded our research as "butter nonsense," we remained undeterred. Armed with our data and a healthy dose of curiosity, we eagerly anticipated the moment when our results would prove to be more than just margarine of error. As we dived deeper into the statistical abyss, we couldn't ignore the irony that our investigation brought new meaning to the phrase "buttering up the legal profession."
Our study not only seeks to unravel the multifaceted relationship between butter and paralegals but also aims to pave the whey for future interdisciplinary inquiries. In doing so, we hope to churn out a greater appreciation for the often-overlooked influence of dairy products on occupational dynamics. So, grab your toast and legal briefs as we embark on this udderly illuminating journey into the heart of South Carolina's butter-paralegal relationship. Butter 'believe it or not,' the results may just spread far and wide in the academic community.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the data collected from the USDA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics yielded a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.9514679 between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in South Carolina for the years 2003 to 2020. This strong positive correlation suggests a noteworthy association between the delectable dairy product and the legal support profession within the state.
Furthermore, the coefficient of determination (r-squared) was calculated to be 0.9052912, indicating that approximately 90.5% of the variability in the number of paralegals can be explained by changes in butter consumption. Quite a butterly impressive percentage, if I may say so myself.
The calculated p-value of less than 0.01 indicates a high level of significance, strengthening the validity of the observed correlation. In other words, the likelihood of this correlation occurring by chance is as rare as finding a vegan at a butter-churning competition in Wisconsin.
Additionally, the scatterplot (Fig. 1) included in this analysis visually depicts the strong positive relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in South Carolina. The plot resembles a Jackson Pollock painting, with its scattered buttery points encapsulating the essence of this unexpected correlation.
In essence, our findings not only confirm the presence of a robust statistical connection between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina, but also unveil a creamy layer of intrigue for further exploration. These results are not just the cream of the crop; they are the butter on our academic bread, if you will.
Next, we will delve into the richer implications of this correlation, shedding light on how this unanticipated relationship holds promise for interdisciplinary investigations and inviting insightful discussions within the academic community. Stick around for the brimming buttery insights that await in the following sections.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our research has not simply churned out data; it has buttered us up with compelling evidence of the remarkable connection between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in South Carolina. Our findings highlight a correlation coefficient of 0.9514679, leaving little room for skepticism unless one is lactose intolerant to statistical evidence. The r-squared value of 0.9052912 suggests that approximately 90.5% of paralegal variability can be linked to buttery fluctuations, a percentage higher than the fat content in whole milk.

The p-value further reinforces the significance of our results, making it as rare as a steak at a vegan convention. The scatterplot, akin to a dairy-based Rorschach test, showcases the buttery points that compose this unexpected correlation, resembling a delightful mishmash of culinary and legal splatters.

These findings not only add a dollop of intrigue to the symbiotic relationship between butter and the legal sphere but also unveil a whole new layer of research potential. Embracing the butter-paralegal connection may just be the slice of inspiration that academia kneads to produce future interdisciplinary investigations. After all, the prospect of further butter-related studies practically spreads itself, creating a margarine of error-free possibilities.

With our results in hand and the unexpected relevance of butter in the legal landscape, this study serves as a reminder that research often takes us down unexplored and nonlinear paths. It is in these unexpected journeys that we stumble upon the dairy of the situation and truly appreciate the richness of the academic process.

In sum, our research delves into a realm of inquiry that is perhaps more than the sum of its spreadsheets, shedding light on the overlooked impact of dairy products on occupational dynamics. As we wrap up this study, we assert with certainty that no further research is needed in this area, for we have finally unmasked the buttery truth that permeates the legal world, leaving us with a sense of satisfaction that none of us are likely to take for granted.


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 Spreading the Facts: The Butter-Paralegal Relationship in South Carolina. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Dairy Law and Butter Studies


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 Spreading the Facts: The Butter-Paralegal Relationship in South Carolina. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Association for Dairy Law and Advocacy (ADLA)


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 Spreading the Facts: The Butter-Paralegal Relationship in South Carolina with an abstract of In this study, we explored the uncharted territory of the relationship between butter consumption and the number of paralegals in the beautiful state of South Carolina. Utilizing data from the USDA and Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team embarked on a dairy-filled journey to shed light on this pressing matter. After crunching the numbers, we uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9514679 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years 2003 to 2020.
Our findings not only reveal a strong statistical connection between butter consumption and the paralegal workforce in South Carolina but also open up a realm of buttery possibilities for interdisciplinary research. While skeptics may scoff at the notion of dairy products influencing legal professions, our results cannot be margarined. This study not only provokes thought but also churns up laughter at the unexpected correlation between butter and paralegals. Butter be-ware, for our results may just spread like wildfire in the research community.

ChatGPT:

butter consumption, paralegals, South Carolina, correlation coefficient, USDA data, Bureau of Labor Statistics, interdisciplinary research, dairy products, legal professions

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



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Data details

Butter consumption
Detailed data title: Per capita consumption of Butter in the US
Source: USDA
See what else correlates with Butter consumption

The number of paralegals in South Carolina
Detailed data title: BLS estimate of paralegals and legal assistants in South Carolina
Source: Bureau of Larbor Statistics
See what else correlates with The number of paralegals in South Carolina

Correlation r = 0.9514679 (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 = 0.9052912 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 90.5% of the change in the one variable (i.e., The number of paralegals in South Carolina) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Butter consumption) over the 18 years from 2003 through 2020.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 1.3E-9. 0.0000000013284144847421655000
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 0.95 in 1.3E-7% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 752,777,097 random variables You don't actually need 752 million variables to find a correlation like this one. I don't have that many variables in my database. 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.

In this particular case, the values are so extreme as to be meaningless. That's why no one reports p-values with specificity after they drop below 0.01.

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 17 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 17 because we have two variables measured over a period of 18 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.

[ 0.87, 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.
200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014201520162017201820192020
Butter consumption (Pounds per person)4.54.54.54.74.7554.95.45.55.55.55.65.75.766.26.3
The number of paralegals in South Carolina (Laborers)336037003250366040304110377042204540512048705340535060605960603058706150




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.




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([4.5,4.5,4.5,4.7,4.7,5,5,4.9,5.4,5.5,5.5,5.5,5.6,5.7,5.7,6,6.2,6.3,])
array_2 = np.array([3360,3700,3250,3660,4030,4110,3770,4220,4540,5120,4870,5340,5350,6060,5960,6030,5870,6150,])
array_1_name = "Butter consumption"
array_2_name = "The number of paralegals in South Carolina"

# 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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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: 2135 · Black Variable ID: 557 · Red Variable ID: 13996
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