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Spurious correlation #2,187 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Air pollution in Oklahoma City and the second variable is Google searches for 'funny cat videos'.  The chart goes from 2004 to 2012, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

The smog in the air led to smirks on people's faces, and as a result, they all sought out some purr entertainment. They just couldn't resist the oppurrtunity to cat-apult their moods. It seems like when the air quality went down, the number of cat videos went up, fur real.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: An image that looks like it is a scene from 'Star Wars' depicting a cozy living room in Oklahoma City, the air hazy with smog as people wear face masks. In the corner, a computer screen shows multiple tabs open, all playing funny cat videos on Google search. 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: Poor air quality in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. 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: Art nouveau Concept art Brutalism Sci-fi fantacy An image that looks like it is a scene from 'Star Wars'
ChatGPT: An image that looks like it is a scene from 'Star Wars'

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 Poor air quality in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos' together. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a cozy living room in Oklahoma City, the air is hazy with smog, and people are seen wearing face masks. Meanwhile, a computer screen in the corner shows multiple tabs open, all playing funny cat videos on Google search.

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: [ An image that looks like it is a scene from 'Star Wars' ] and depicting this scene: In a cozy living room in Oklahoma City, the air is hazy with smog, and people are seen wearing face masks. Meanwhile, a computer screen in the corner shows multiple tabs open, all playing funny cat videos on Google search. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: An image that looks like it is a scene from 'Star Wars' depicting a cozy living room in Oklahoma City, the air hazy with smog as people wear face masks. In the corner, a computer screen shows multiple tabs open, all playing funny cat videos on Google search.

*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 Air pollution in Oklahoma City caused funny cat videos (Google searches for 'funny cat videos') to increase. Include one good pun.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Felines and Fumes: The Farcical Fascination with Funny Cat Videos in Face of Air Pollution in Oklahoma City

The Journal of Whimsical 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 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 Air pollution in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Make the title an alliteration.

Your research team used data from Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and p < 0.01 for 2004 to 2012.

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]]
Felines and Fumes: The Farcical Fascination with Funny Cat Videos in Face of Air Pollution in Oklahoma City

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this purr-suit of uncovering the unexpected and unconventional impact of air pollution on human behavior, we embarked upon an investigation into the correlation between the concentration of airborne pollutants in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. Our study reveals a statistically significant association between these seemingly disparate phenomena, shedding light on the whimsical ways in which air quality may influence online entertainment preferences.

Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the period from 2004 to 2012. The results unearthed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and p < 0.01, indicating a robust relationship between air pollution levels and the proclivity for seeking amusing feline content. This discovery prompts a furr-tive chuckle and raises eyebrows about the unforeseen impact of environmental factors on digital amusement.

Our findings offer a fresh perspective on the interplay between environmental influences and human online behavior, presenting a compelling case for further investigation into the curious connection between atmospheric conditions and internet indulgences. As we present this thought-provoking evidence, we encourage a whisker-tainment of the notion that the allure of humorous cat videos may not only be a product of individual taste, but also a consequence of the ambient air quality. This research serves as a catalyst for a deeper exploration of the whimsical and often perplexing interrelationships between our environment and our online diversions.


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 Air pollution in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Felines and Fumes: The Farcical Fascination with Funny Cat Videos in Face of Air Pollution in Oklahoma City

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this purr-suit of uncovering the unexpected and unconventional impact of air pollution on human behavior, we embarked upon an investigation into the correlation between the concentration of airborne pollutants in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. Our study reveals a statistically significant association between these seemingly disparate phenomena, shedding light on the whimsical ways in which air quality may influence online entertainment preferences.

Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the period from 2004 to 2012. The results unearthed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and p < 0.01, indicating a robust relationship between air pollution levels and the proclivity for seeking amusing feline content. This discovery prompts a furr-tive chuckle and raises eyebrows about the unforeseen impact of environmental factors on digital amusement.

Our findings offer a fresh perspective on the interplay between environmental influences and human online behavior, presenting a compelling case for further investigation into the curious connection between atmospheric conditions and internet indulgences. As we present this thought-provoking evidence, we encourage a whisker-tainment of the notion that the allure of humorous cat videos may not only be a product of individual taste, but also a consequence of the ambient air quality. This research serves as a catalyst for a deeper exploration of the whimsical and often perplexing interrelationships between our environment and our online diversions.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The correlation between environmental factors and human behavior is a topic of perpetual interest and intrigue. While much research has been dedicated to the impact of air pollution on physical health and cognitive function, the investigation into its connection with online entertainment preferences may seem to be a meow-ter of amusement rather than serious inquiry. However, our study delves into this playful yet thought-provoking realm, focusing on the relationship between air pollution in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'.

To set the stage for our investigation, we cannot help but paws for a moment and reflect on the purr-plexing nature of this association. Air pollution, often regarded as a serious environmental issue, may seem an unlikely bedfellow for the lighthearted pursuit of humorous feline content. However, as the saying goes, "When the cat's away, the mice will play", and in the case of our research, it seems the cats and the pollutants may indeed have their own whimsical dance.

This lighthearted inquiry into the correlation between air pollution and the proclivity for seeking amusing cat videos is underpinned by a solid foundation of statistical analysis and rigorous methodology. While the subject matter may elicit a chuckle, our approach is nothing to sneeze at, as we draw upon extensive data sources and employ robust statistical techniques to unveil the intriguing connection lurking amidst the mists of air pollution and the allure of internet cat-themed entertainment. As much as we enjoy a good laugh, we are not kitten around when it comes to scientific rigor and empirical evidence.


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 Air pollution in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. 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 devolve ever further, and mention something completely ridiculous, like you conducted literature review by reading the backs of shampoo bottles.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Felines and Fumes: The Farcical Fascination with Funny Cat Videos in Face of Air Pollution in Oklahoma City

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this purr-suit of uncovering the unexpected and unconventional impact of air pollution on human behavior, we embarked upon an investigation into the correlation between the concentration of airborne pollutants in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. Our study reveals a statistically significant association between these seemingly disparate phenomena, shedding light on the whimsical ways in which air quality may influence online entertainment preferences.

Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the period from 2004 to 2012. The results unearthed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and p < 0.01, indicating a robust relationship between air pollution levels and the proclivity for seeking amusing feline content. This discovery prompts a furr-tive chuckle and raises eyebrows about the unforeseen impact of environmental factors on digital amusement.

Our findings offer a fresh perspective on the interplay between environmental influences and human online behavior, presenting a compelling case for further investigation into the curious connection between atmospheric conditions and internet indulgences. As we present this thought-provoking evidence, we encourage a whisker-tainment of the notion that the allure of humorous cat videos may not only be a product of individual taste, but also a consequence of the ambient air quality. This research serves as a catalyst for a deeper exploration of the whimsical and often perplexing interrelationships between our environment and our online diversions.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The correlation between environmental factors and human behavior is a topic of perpetual interest and intrigue. While much research has been dedicated to the impact of air pollution on physical health and cognitive function, the investigation into its connection with online entertainment preferences may seem to be a meow-ter of amusement rather than serious inquiry. However, our study delves into this playful yet thought-provoking realm, focusing on the relationship between air pollution in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'.
To set the stage for our investigation, we cannot help but paws for a moment and reflect on the purr-plexing nature of this association. Air pollution, often regarded as a serious environmental issue, may seem an unlikely bedfellow for the lighthearted pursuit of humorous feline content. However, as the saying goes, "When the cat's away, the mice will play", and in the case of our research, it seems the cats and the pollutants may indeed have their own whimsical dance.
This lighthearted inquiry into the correlation between air pollution and the proclivity for seeking amusing cat videos is underpinned by a solid foundation of statistical analysis and rigorous methodology. While the subject matter may elicit a chuckle, our approach is nothing to sneeze at, as we draw upon extensive data sources and employ robust statistical techniques to unveil the intriguing connection lurking amidst the mists of air pollution and the allure of internet cat-themed entertainment. As much as we enjoy a good laugh, we are not kitten around when it comes to scientific rigor and empirical evidence.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

Previous studies have extensively examined the relationship between air pollution and various health outcomes, shedding light on the detrimental effects of airborne pollutants on respiratory function, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being. Smith et al. (2017) found a clear association between high levels of particulate matter and an increased risk of cardiopulmonary diseases, underscoring the urgent need for environmental regulations to mitigate these adverse effects. Similarly, Doe and Jones (2015) demonstrated a correlation between air pollution exposure and neurocognitive decline, prompting further investigation into the impact of pollutants on cognitive function.

Now, let's take a whisker-spread look at some related literature. In "The Air Pollution Primer" by Clear and Fresh (2019), the authors expound upon the various sources and effects of air pollution, providing a comprehensive overview of the environmental and public health implications. Transitioning to a more whimsical realm, "The Cat Encyclopedia" by Whisker and Purr (2018) presents a delightful compendium of feline facts and anecdotes, offering insight into the endearing allure of cat-themed content on the internet.

Turning our attention to the world of fiction, "The Unbearable Lightness of Being Fluffy" by Milan Furr-daa (1984) captivates readers with its philosophical musings and existential dilemmas, although regrettably lacking in substantial empirical evidence on the connection between air pollution and cat videos. In a more fantastical vein, "The Chronicles of Whisker-ia" by C.S. Furling (1950) regales readers with tales of anthropomorphic feline adventures, but alas, provides little insight into the statistical underpinnings of our current inquiry.

In a somewhat unorthodox approach to literature review, we also perused the backs of countless shampoo bottles, hoping to stumble upon a sud-sational revelation or perhaps a pawsitively enlightening insight regarding the interplay between air pollution and online cat humor. While our efforts yielded little in terms of scholarly wisdom, we were nevertheless amused by the various promises of silky-smooth hair and lustrous shine, suggesting that even in the realm of idle bathroom reading, there is much to be gained in terms of entertainment, if not academic enlightenment.

As we navigate this whimsical domain in our quest for scholarly knowledge, we are reminded of a timely dad joke: "What did the cat say when it lost all its money? I'm paw!" With this lighthearted spirit, we delve into the heart of our findings, where empirical evidence and statistical analysis converge with the fanciful allure of funny cat videos in the digital landscape.


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 Air pollution in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends . You used data from 2004 to 2012

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]]
Felines and Fumes: The Farcical Fascination with Funny Cat Videos in Face of Air Pollution in Oklahoma City

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this purr-suit of uncovering the unexpected and unconventional impact of air pollution on human behavior, we embarked upon an investigation into the correlation between the concentration of airborne pollutants in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. Our study reveals a statistically significant association between these seemingly disparate phenomena, shedding light on the whimsical ways in which air quality may influence online entertainment preferences.

Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the period from 2004 to 2012. The results unearthed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and p < 0.01, indicating a robust relationship between air pollution levels and the proclivity for seeking amusing feline content. This discovery prompts a furr-tive chuckle and raises eyebrows about the unforeseen impact of environmental factors on digital amusement.

Our findings offer a fresh perspective on the interplay between environmental influences and human online behavior, presenting a compelling case for further investigation into the curious connection between atmospheric conditions and internet indulgences. As we present this thought-provoking evidence, we encourage a whisker-tainment of the notion that the allure of humorous cat videos may not only be a product of individual taste, but also a consequence of the ambient air quality. This research serves as a catalyst for a deeper exploration of the whimsical and often perplexing interrelationships between our environment and our online diversions.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The correlation between environmental factors and human behavior is a topic of perpetual interest and intrigue. While much research has been dedicated to the impact of air pollution on physical health and cognitive function, the investigation into its connection with online entertainment preferences may seem to be a meow-ter of amusement rather than serious inquiry. However, our study delves into this playful yet thought-provoking realm, focusing on the relationship between air pollution in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'.
To set the stage for our investigation, we cannot help but paws for a moment and reflect on the purr-plexing nature of this association. Air pollution, often regarded as a serious environmental issue, may seem an unlikely bedfellow for the lighthearted pursuit of humorous feline content. However, as the saying goes, "When the cat's away, the mice will play", and in the case of our research, it seems the cats and the pollutants may indeed have their own whimsical dance.
This lighthearted inquiry into the correlation between air pollution and the proclivity for seeking amusing cat videos is underpinned by a solid foundation of statistical analysis and rigorous methodology. While the subject matter may elicit a chuckle, our approach is nothing to sneeze at, as we draw upon extensive data sources and employ robust statistical techniques to unveil the intriguing connection lurking amidst the mists of air pollution and the allure of internet cat-themed entertainment. As much as we enjoy a good laugh, we are not kitten around when it comes to scientific rigor and empirical evidence.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

Sampling Strategy:
To investigate the correlation between air pollution in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos', we employed a meticulous and, dare I say, purr-fect sampling strategy. Our data collection process began by acquiring air quality measurements from the Environmental Protection Agency for the years 2004 to 2012. We specifically focused on the concentration of pollutants such as ozone, particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. The selection of this time frame allowed us to capture the fluctuations in air pollution levels and their potential impact on the digital curiosity of the populace.

We also turned to Google Trends to obtain the frequency of searches for 'funny cat videos' within the same time period. The search volume index, which reflects the relative popularity of a search term, served as a meow-tiful indicator of the public's inclination towards lighthearted feline-themed humor. The coordination of these two distinct data sources enabled us to unravel the correlation between air pollution and the allure of online cat-related entertainment.

However, one does wonder if the data was just playing cat and mouse with us. As much as we appreciate a good chase, we maintained a watchful eye to ensure that our data sources were not leading us astray. Our sampling strategy was designed to capture the true essence of the relationship between air quality and the inclination for comical cat content, leaving no stone unturned in our quest for purr-suasive evidence.

Statistical Analysis:
With the data in paw, we then delved into the statistical labyrinth, utilizing an arsenal of analytical tools to decipher the underlying patterns. We calculated Pearson's correlation coefficient to quantify the strength and direction of the relationship between air pollution levels and Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. The coefficient's revelation of a robust association between these seemingly unrelated variables prompted a collective response from our research team - "You've cat to be kitten me right meow!"

Furthermore, we performed a series of regression analyses to scrutinize the influence of different pollutants on the frequency of amusing cat-related searches. Our regression models meow-stered the various factors and their impact on the whimsical search patterns, ultimately unveiling the paw-sibility of specific pollutants acting as catalysts for the public's indulgence in online feline humor. However, we maintain a cautious approach, knowing that correlation does not necessarily imply causation - though in this case, it might just point to cat-astrophic levels of air pollution leading to a surge in searches for comedic cat escapades.

Control Measures:
In this romp through the world of statistics, we made certain to account for potential confounding variables that could have influenced the observed relationship. Factors such as seasonal fluctuations, socio-economic conditions, and other environmental determinants were considered in our analysis to ensure that the purported association between air pollution and the pursuit of amusing cat videos was not a mere fur-gery of the real state of affairs. Our vigilance in controlling for these variables was akin to keeping a pack of curious kittens away from a ball of yarn - attentive, yet constantly vigilant for unexpected tangles in the data.

Ethical Considerations:
Lastly, we tackled the ethical considerations inherent in our research. While the pursuit of knowledge can often be a grin-and-bear-it endeavor, we ensured that our methodology upheld the welfare of both felines and humans. Our investigation was guided by principles of integrity and respect for privacy, ensuring that the data used was anonymized and handled with the utmost care, treating each data point as a purr-sonal matter of concern.

In summary, our methodology served as the robust framework for unraveling the whimsical correlation between air pollution in Oklahoma City and the penchant for seeking amusing cat videos. Despite the lighthearted nature of our subject matter, we approached our research with the utmost rigor, leaving no whisker untickled in our pursuit of uncovering this surprising connection.


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 Air pollution in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends .

For the time period 2004 to 2012, you found a correlation 0.8567564, r-squared of 0.7340315, 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]]
Felines and Fumes: The Farcical Fascination with Funny Cat Videos in Face of Air Pollution in Oklahoma City

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this purr-suit of uncovering the unexpected and unconventional impact of air pollution on human behavior, we embarked upon an investigation into the correlation between the concentration of airborne pollutants in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. Our study reveals a statistically significant association between these seemingly disparate phenomena, shedding light on the whimsical ways in which air quality may influence online entertainment preferences.

Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the period from 2004 to 2012. The results unearthed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and p < 0.01, indicating a robust relationship between air pollution levels and the proclivity for seeking amusing feline content. This discovery prompts a furr-tive chuckle and raises eyebrows about the unforeseen impact of environmental factors on digital amusement.

Our findings offer a fresh perspective on the interplay between environmental influences and human online behavior, presenting a compelling case for further investigation into the curious connection between atmospheric conditions and internet indulgences. As we present this thought-provoking evidence, we encourage a whisker-tainment of the notion that the allure of humorous cat videos may not only be a product of individual taste, but also a consequence of the ambient air quality. This research serves as a catalyst for a deeper exploration of the whimsical and often perplexing interrelationships between our environment and our online diversions.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The correlation between environmental factors and human behavior is a topic of perpetual interest and intrigue. While much research has been dedicated to the impact of air pollution on physical health and cognitive function, the investigation into its connection with online entertainment preferences may seem to be a meow-ter of amusement rather than serious inquiry. However, our study delves into this playful yet thought-provoking realm, focusing on the relationship between air pollution in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'.
To set the stage for our investigation, we cannot help but paws for a moment and reflect on the purr-plexing nature of this association. Air pollution, often regarded as a serious environmental issue, may seem an unlikely bedfellow for the lighthearted pursuit of humorous feline content. However, as the saying goes, "When the cat's away, the mice will play", and in the case of our research, it seems the cats and the pollutants may indeed have their own whimsical dance.
This lighthearted inquiry into the correlation between air pollution and the proclivity for seeking amusing cat videos is underpinned by a solid foundation of statistical analysis and rigorous methodology. While the subject matter may elicit a chuckle, our approach is nothing to sneeze at, as we draw upon extensive data sources and employ robust statistical techniques to unveil the intriguing connection lurking amidst the mists of air pollution and the allure of internet cat-themed entertainment. As much as we enjoy a good laugh, we are not kitten around when it comes to scientific rigor and empirical evidence.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

Our investigation into the relationship between air pollution in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos' yielded some quite litter-ary fascinating results. We found a statistically significant correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and a substantial r-squared value of 0.7340315. The p-value being less than 0.01 indicates a strong relationship between these two seemingly unrelated phenomena. You've got to be kitten me!

The correlation we observed is visually depicted in the scatterplot presented in Figure 1. The graph reveals a clear and convincing pattern, demonstrating the paw-sitive association between air pollution levels and the frequency of searches for amusing cat videos. It's almost as if the data is telling us, "Don't stop retrievin', hold on to that feline feeling!"

These results shed light on the unexpected and perhaps fur-midable influence of environmental factors on online entertainment preferences. While it may seem purr-plexing at first glance, our findings underscore the sneeze-worthy impact of air pollution on the whimsical pursuit of amusing feline content. Our research provides a playful yet paw-sibly profound insight into the interplay between atmospheric conditions and digital amusement.

The robust statistical evidence we have unearthed begs the question: Could it be that when the air is heavy with pollutants, our inclination to seek solace in a world of comical cats becomes a purr-tinent coping mechanism? We leave this thought with you as a little food for purr-spective.


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 Air pollution in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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]]
Felines and Fumes: The Farcical Fascination with Funny Cat Videos in Face of Air Pollution in Oklahoma City

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this purr-suit of uncovering the unexpected and unconventional impact of air pollution on human behavior, we embarked upon an investigation into the correlation between the concentration of airborne pollutants in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. Our study reveals a statistically significant association between these seemingly disparate phenomena, shedding light on the whimsical ways in which air quality may influence online entertainment preferences.

Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the period from 2004 to 2012. The results unearthed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and p < 0.01, indicating a robust relationship between air pollution levels and the proclivity for seeking amusing feline content. This discovery prompts a furr-tive chuckle and raises eyebrows about the unforeseen impact of environmental factors on digital amusement.

Our findings offer a fresh perspective on the interplay between environmental influences and human online behavior, presenting a compelling case for further investigation into the curious connection between atmospheric conditions and internet indulgences. As we present this thought-provoking evidence, we encourage a whisker-tainment of the notion that the allure of humorous cat videos may not only be a product of individual taste, but also a consequence of the ambient air quality. This research serves as a catalyst for a deeper exploration of the whimsical and often perplexing interrelationships between our environment and our online diversions.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
Previous studies have extensively examined the relationship between air pollution and various health outcomes, shedding light on the detrimental effects of airborne pollutants on respiratory function, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being. Smith et al. (2017) found a clear association between high levels of particulate matter and an increased risk of cardiopulmonary diseases, underscoring the urgent need for environmental regulations to mitigate these adverse effects. Similarly, Doe and Jones (2015) demonstrated a correlation between air pollution exposure and neurocognitive decline, prompting further investigation into the impact of pollutants on cognitive function.
Now, let's take a whisker-spread look at some related literature. In "The Air Pollution Primer" by Clear and Fresh (2019), the authors expound upon the various sources and effects of air pollution, providing a comprehensive overview of the environmental and public health implications. Transitioning to a more whimsical realm, "The Cat Encyclopedia" by Whisker and Purr (2018) presents a delightful compendium of feline facts and anecdotes, offering insight into the endearing allure of cat-themed content on the internet.
Turning our attention to the world of fiction, "The Unbearable Lightness of Being Fluffy" by Milan Furr-daa (1984) captivates readers with its philosophical musings and existential dilemmas, although regrettably lacking in substantial empirical evidence on the connection between air pollution and cat videos. In a more fantastical vein, "The Chronicles of Whisker-ia" by C.S. Furling (1950) regales readers with tales of anthropomorphic feline adventures, but alas, provides little insight into the statistical underpinnings of our current inquiry.
In a somewhat unorthodox approach to literature review, we also perused the backs of countless shampoo bottles, hoping to stumble upon a sud-sational revelation or perhaps a pawsitively enlightening insight regarding the interplay between air pollution and online cat humor. While our efforts yielded little in terms of scholarly wisdom, we were nevertheless amused by the various promises of silky-smooth hair and lustrous shine, suggesting that even in the realm of idle bathroom reading, there is much to be gained in terms of entertainment, if not academic enlightenment.
As we navigate this whimsical domain in our quest for scholarly knowledge, we are reminded of a timely dad joke: "What did the cat say when it lost all its money? I'm paw!" With this lighthearted spirit, we delve into the heart of our findings, where empirical evidence and statistical analysis converge with the fanciful allure of funny cat videos in the digital landscape.

[[RESULTS]]
Our investigation into the relationship between air pollution in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos' yielded some quite litter-ary fascinating results. We found a statistically significant correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and a substantial r-squared value of 0.7340315. The p-value being less than 0.01 indicates a strong relationship between these two seemingly unrelated phenomena. You've got to be kitten me!
The correlation we observed is visually depicted in the scatterplot presented in Figure 1. The graph reveals a clear and convincing pattern, demonstrating the paw-sitive association between air pollution levels and the frequency of searches for amusing cat videos. It's almost as if the data is telling us, "Don't stop retrievin', hold on to that feline feeling!"
These results shed light on the unexpected and perhaps fur-midable influence of environmental factors on online entertainment preferences. While it may seem purr-plexing at first glance, our findings underscore the sneeze-worthy impact of air pollution on the whimsical pursuit of amusing feline content. Our research provides a playful yet paw-sibly profound insight into the interplay between atmospheric conditions and digital amusement.
The robust statistical evidence we have unearthed begs the question: Could it be that when the air is heavy with pollutants, our inclination to seek solace in a world of comical cats becomes a purr-tinent coping mechanism? We leave this thought with you as a little food for purr-spective.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our study has yielded intriguing results that not only align with existing literature but also provide a novel perspective on the interdependent dynamics of atmospheric conditions and human behavior, this time within the realm of online entertainment preferences. The statistically significant correlation between air pollution in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos' confirms and expands upon prior research on the impact of environmental factors on human cognitive and emotional responses.

The connection between air pollution and adverse health outcomes has been well-documented in previous studies. The findings of Smith et al. (2017) and Doe and Jones (2015) have highlighted the detrimental effects of airborne pollutants on physical health. Our results, however, introduce a novel dimension to this body of research, offering a whimsical yet enlightening glimpse into the potential influence of air quality on individuals' digital amusement preferences. It seems that even as we struggle to catch our breath in polluted air, we may turn to the antics of whimsical felines for a breath of fresh humor.

Building on the unexpected yet fur-tively convincing insights of "The Cat Encyclopedia" by Whisker and Purr (2018), our research underscores the remarkable correlation between air pollution and the allure of cat-themed content on digital platforms. The statistically significant relationship we have unearthed invites a paw-sitive reconsideration of the factors that shape our online entertainment choices, reminding us that even in the face of environmental challenges, the pursuit of amusement may take curious and unpredictable turns.

Our results, with their emphasis on the unforeseen impact of air pollution on the appeal of 'funny cat videos', suggest a nuanced interplay between environmental stressors and the quest for lighthearted diversions. While this observation may initially elicit a chuckle, it prompts a fur-midable reflection on the multifaceted ways in which individuals navigate their digital environments amidst broader environmental influences.

In conclusion, our study not only contributes to the expanding realm of interdisciplinary research on environmental psychology and digital behavior but also beckons a reconsideration of the whimsical ways in which our online choices may be influenced by the ambient air we breathe. It seems that as we navigate the cyber-sphere, the whimsical allure of cat videos may serve as a light-hearted response to the weighty presence of atmospheric pollutants, offering a purr-haps unexpected avenue for coping with environmental challenges.

Remember, when it comes to the correlation between air pollution and funny cat videos, there's no need to meow-verthink it!


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 Air pollution in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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]]
Felines and Fumes: The Farcical Fascination with Funny Cat Videos in Face of Air Pollution in Oklahoma City

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this purr-suit of uncovering the unexpected and unconventional impact of air pollution on human behavior, we embarked upon an investigation into the correlation between the concentration of airborne pollutants in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. Our study reveals a statistically significant association between these seemingly disparate phenomena, shedding light on the whimsical ways in which air quality may influence online entertainment preferences.

Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the period from 2004 to 2012. The results unearthed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and p < 0.01, indicating a robust relationship between air pollution levels and the proclivity for seeking amusing feline content. This discovery prompts a furr-tive chuckle and raises eyebrows about the unforeseen impact of environmental factors on digital amusement.

Our findings offer a fresh perspective on the interplay between environmental influences and human online behavior, presenting a compelling case for further investigation into the curious connection between atmospheric conditions and internet indulgences. As we present this thought-provoking evidence, we encourage a whisker-tainment of the notion that the allure of humorous cat videos may not only be a product of individual taste, but also a consequence of the ambient air quality. This research serves as a catalyst for a deeper exploration of the whimsical and often perplexing interrelationships between our environment and our online diversions.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The correlation between environmental factors and human behavior is a topic of perpetual interest and intrigue. While much research has been dedicated to the impact of air pollution on physical health and cognitive function, the investigation into its connection with online entertainment preferences may seem to be a meow-ter of amusement rather than serious inquiry. However, our study delves into this playful yet thought-provoking realm, focusing on the relationship between air pollution in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'.
To set the stage for our investigation, we cannot help but paws for a moment and reflect on the purr-plexing nature of this association. Air pollution, often regarded as a serious environmental issue, may seem an unlikely bedfellow for the lighthearted pursuit of humorous feline content. However, as the saying goes, "When the cat's away, the mice will play", and in the case of our research, it seems the cats and the pollutants may indeed have their own whimsical dance.
This lighthearted inquiry into the correlation between air pollution and the proclivity for seeking amusing cat videos is underpinned by a solid foundation of statistical analysis and rigorous methodology. While the subject matter may elicit a chuckle, our approach is nothing to sneeze at, as we draw upon extensive data sources and employ robust statistical techniques to unveil the intriguing connection lurking amidst the mists of air pollution and the allure of internet cat-themed entertainment. As much as we enjoy a good laugh, we are not kitten around when it comes to scientific rigor and empirical evidence.

[[RESULTS]]
Our investigation into the relationship between air pollution in Oklahoma City and Google searches for 'funny cat videos' yielded some quite litter-ary fascinating results. We found a statistically significant correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and a substantial r-squared value of 0.7340315. The p-value being less than 0.01 indicates a strong relationship between these two seemingly unrelated phenomena. You've got to be kitten me!
The correlation we observed is visually depicted in the scatterplot presented in Figure 1. The graph reveals a clear and convincing pattern, demonstrating the paw-sitive association between air pollution levels and the frequency of searches for amusing cat videos. It's almost as if the data is telling us, "Don't stop retrievin', hold on to that feline feeling!"
These results shed light on the unexpected and perhaps fur-midable influence of environmental factors on online entertainment preferences. While it may seem purr-plexing at first glance, our findings underscore the sneeze-worthy impact of air pollution on the whimsical pursuit of amusing feline content. Our research provides a playful yet paw-sibly profound insight into the interplay between atmospheric conditions and digital amusement.
The robust statistical evidence we have unearthed begs the question: Could it be that when the air is heavy with pollutants, our inclination to seek solace in a world of comical cats becomes a purr-tinent coping mechanism? We leave this thought with you as a little food for purr-spective.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our investigation into the correlation between air pollution in Oklahoma City and the prevalence of Google searches for 'funny cat videos' has revealed a significant and robust relationship between these seemingly incongruous variables. The substantial correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and the compelling r-squared value of 0.7340315 attest to the paw-sitive association between air pollution levels and the frequency of searches for amusing feline content. It is not just a hairball of a coincidence!

As we wrap up our study, it is evident that the allure of funny cat videos is not immune to the influence of ambient air quality. This feline phenomenon, seemingly light-hearted and whimsical, may be underpinned by the purr-vasive nature of air pollution, offering a whimsical counterpoint to the purr-ceived seriousness of environmental concerns. Much like a cat toy hidden from view, this connection was not readily apparent, but upon further investigation, it has proven to be an unexpected and notable revelation.

Our findings warrant fervent exploration into the mechanisms underlying this curious interaction. The air of mystery surrounding the influence of air pollution on our proclivity for amusing cat videos is ripe for further scrutiny and amusement. The cat, or rather the statistical evidence, is out of the bag, and it beckons researchers to embark on a purr-lific journey of inquiry into the ways in which environmental factors intertwine with our online indulgences.

In light of our compelling results, we advocate for a pause in the litter box of skepticism and a meow-ment of reflection on the significance of air quality in shaping our digital amusement preferences. It behooves us to recognize the fur-midable impact of environmental elements on seemingly unrelated facets of human behavior, for they may hold the key to unlocking unexplored dimensions of our online antics. As the saying goes, "Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back," and in this instance, our curiosity has led to the satisfaction of shedding light on a playfully perplexing correlation.

Having unraveled this compelling connection between air pollution and the pursuit of cat-themed entertainment, we find ourselves at a fur-tunate juncture where no further research is needed in this particular area. The proverbial can of tuna has been opened, and the findings are a fountain of knowledge, lapping at the shores of scientific discovery. With a wag of the tail, we conclude that the relationship between air pollution in Oklahoma City and the inclination to seek solace in the antics of amusing feline videos has been satisfactorily explored. There's no more purr-sing around the subject - it’s time to let the cat nap, and the data speaks for itself!


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 Felines and Fumes: The Farcical Fascination with Funny Cat Videos in Face of Air Pollution in Oklahoma City. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Whimsical 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 Felines and Fumes: The Farcical Fascination with Funny Cat Videos in Face of Air Pollution in Oklahoma City. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

Society for the Advancement of Quirky Animal Studies


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 Felines and Fumes: The Farcical Fascination with Funny Cat Videos in Face of Air Pollution in Oklahoma City with an abstract of In this purr-suit of uncovering the unexpected and unconventional impact of air pollution on human behavior, we embarked upon an investigation into the correlation between the concentration of airborne pollutants in Oklahoma City and the frequency of Google searches for 'funny cat videos'. Our study reveals a statistically significant association between these seemingly disparate phenomena, shedding light on the whimsical ways in which air quality may influence online entertainment preferences.
Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the period from 2004 to 2012. The results unearthed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8567564 and p < 0.01, indicating a robust relationship between air pollution levels and the proclivity for seeking amusing feline content. This discovery prompts a furr-tive chuckle and raises eyebrows about the unforeseen impact of environmental factors on digital amusement.
Our findings offer a fresh perspective on the interplay between environmental influences and human online behavior, presenting a compelling case for further investigation into the curious connection between atmospheric conditions and internet indulgences. As we present this thought-provoking evidence, we encourage a whisker-tainment of the notion that the allure of humorous cat videos may not only be a product of individual taste, but also a consequence of the ambient air quality. This research serves as a catalyst for a deeper exploration of the whimsical and often perplexing interrelationships between our environment and our online diversions.

ChatGPT:

Feline behavior, air pollution impact, human behavior, online entertainment preferences, correlation between air pollution and internet searches, Google searches for funny cat videos, Environmental Protection Agency data, Google Trends analysis, correlation coefficient, air pollution levels and online behavior, atmospheric conditions and internet indulgences.

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



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Data details

Air pollution in Oklahoma City
Detailed data title: Percentage of days 'unhealthy' or worse air quality in Oklahoma City, OK
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
See what else correlates with Air pollution in Oklahoma City

Google searches for 'funny cat videos'
Detailed data title: Relative volume of Google searches for 'funny cat videos' (United States, without quotes)
Source: Google Trends
Additional Info: Relative search volume (not absolute numbers)

See what else correlates with Google searches for 'funny cat videos'

Correlation r = 0.8567564 (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 = 0.7340315 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 73.4% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Google searches for 'funny cat videos') is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Air pollution in Oklahoma City) over the 9 years from 2004 through 2012.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 0.0032. 0.0031747982866850630000000000
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 0.86 in 0.32% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 315 random variables Which I absolutely did.
with the same 8 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 8 because we have two variables measured over a period of 9 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.

[ 0.45, 0.97 ] 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.
200420052006200720082009201020112012
Air pollution in Oklahoma City (Bad air quality days)00.8219182.739730.5479450000.5479450.819672
Google searches for 'funny cat videos' (Rel. search volume)7.0833310.416717.583310.59.251111.512.513.1667




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. Very low n: There are not many data points included in this analysis. Even if the p-value is high, we should be suspicious of using so few datapoints in a correlation.
  5. 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([0,0.821918,2.73973,0.547945,0,0,0,0.547945,0.819672,])
array_2 = np.array([7.08333,10.4167,17.5833,10.5,9.25,11,11.5,12.5,13.1667,])
array_1_name = "Air pollution in Oklahoma City"
array_2_name = "Google searches for 'funny cat videos'"

# 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: 2187 · Black Variable ID: 20999 · Red Variable ID: 1414
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