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Spurious correlation #3,167 · 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 Anchorage and the second variable is Viewership count for Days of Our Lives.  The chart goes from 1980 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

As the air cleared up in Anchorage, so did the plot lines on Days of Our Lives. Perhaps the smog was the only thing keeping the show's love triangles and drama-filled story arcs afloat. It seems like without the pollution, the residents had a clearer view of their TV options.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Title: "Clear Skies, Clear Choices" Prompt: Generate an image that seamlessly blends the serene morning sky over Anchorage with people relishing outdoor activities like hiking and biking. In the foreground, show a living room with a TV screen that visually conveys a decrease in viewership of Days of Our Lives, contrasting the outdoor escapades with the declining soap opera audience. The mood should feel refreshing and invigorating, symbolizing the shift from indoor entertainment to embracing nature. The image should capture the harmony between the tranquil outdoors and the diminishing allure of indoor distractions, evoking a sense of embracing nature's call. 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: Air pollution in Anchorage and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. 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: Steampunk An image that looks like it is a scene from 'Star Wars' Low poly a meme Cyber folk
ChatGPT: a meme

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 Air pollution in Anchorage and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives, in the following situation: As air pollution decreased in Anchorage, people's minds cleared up, leading to less desire for mindless soap operas like Days of Our Lives. With cleaner air, viewers chose to spend more time outdoors and less time on the sofa drama.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In Anchorage, the sky clears as the air pollution decreases. People are seen enjoying the fresh air and sunshine, engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Meanwhile, the TV in the living room shows a drop in the viewership count for Days of Our Lives as more viewers opt for outdoor adventures over soap operas.

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 meme ] and depicting this scene: In Anchorage, the sky clears as the air pollution decreases. People are seen enjoying the fresh air and sunshine, engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Meanwhile, the TV in the living room shows a drop in the viewership count for Days of Our Lives as more viewers opt for outdoor adventures over soap operas. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Title: "Clear Skies, Clear Choices" Prompt: Generate an image that seamlessly blends the serene morning sky over Anchorage with people relishing outdoor activities like hiking and biking. In the foreground, show a living room with a TV screen that visually conveys a decrease in viewership of Days of Our Lives, contrasting the outdoor escapades with the declining soap opera audience. The mood should feel refreshing and invigorating, symbolizing the shift from indoor entertainment to embracing nature. The image should capture the harmony between the tranquil outdoors and the diminishing allure of indoor distractions, evoking a sense of embracing nature's call.

*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 a decrease in Air pollution in Anchorage caused Viewership count for Days of Our Lives to decrease. Include one good pun.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Air Pollution in Anchorage: An Unexpected Influence on the Viewership Count for Days of Our Lives

The Journal of Environmental Soap Opera 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 Anchorage and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Rhyme words in the title.

Your research team used data from Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and p < 0.01 for 1980 to 2021.

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]]
Air Pollution in Anchorage: An Unexpected Influence on the Viewership Count for Days of Our Lives

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera, Days of Our Lives. Drawing upon data obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, our research team scrutinized the correlation between these seemingly disparate variables over a span of four decades (1980-2021). Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a notable correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicative of a statistically significant association. The implications of this unanticipated connection pique curiosity and offer a whimsical perspective on the multifaceted influence of environmental factors on popular culture. This study serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly unrelated phenomena may share an underlying bond, and encourages further exploration of unconventional correlations in the realm of societal trends and environmental impact.


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 Anchorage and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. 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]]
Air Pollution in Anchorage: An Unexpected Influence on the Viewership Count for Days of Our Lives

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera, Days of Our Lives. Drawing upon data obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, our research team scrutinized the correlation between these seemingly disparate variables over a span of four decades (1980-2021). Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a notable correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicative of a statistically significant association. The implications of this unanticipated connection pique curiosity and offer a whimsical perspective on the multifaceted influence of environmental factors on popular culture. This study serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly unrelated phenomena may share an underlying bond, and encourages further exploration of unconventional correlations in the realm of societal trends and environmental impact.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The influence of environmental factors on various social and cultural phenomena has been a subject of considerable interest and debate in recent years. While the impact of air pollution on human health and ecosystems is widely acknowledged and extensively studied, the potential influence of atmospheric conditions on television viewership count remains an unexpected and relatively unexplored area of investigation. In this study, we embark on a quest to unravel the enigmatic connection between air pollution in Anchorage, Alaska, and the viewership count for the enduring soap opera, Days of Our Lives.

Anchorage, known for its stunning natural landscapes and robust wildlife, also contends with its fair share of air pollution, primarily stemming from industrial activities and vehicular emissions. Meanwhile, Days of Our Lives, a beloved staple of daytime television, has kept audiences engrossed in its convoluted plotlines and dramatic sagas for over half a century. One might be forgiven for failing to draw a line between the two seemingly incongruous entities, yet our curiosity was piqued by the possibility of an underlying correlation.

As we delve into this peculiar association, we are mindful of the playful and whimsical nature of our investigation. While the premise may elicit a chuckle or two, the statistical rigor and methodological integrity of our analysis are not to be underestimated. With a statistical correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, we have arrived at the precipice of an unforeseen revelation, where the seemingly unrelated becomes unexpectedly intertwined.

In the following sections, we present a detailed review of the relevant literature, outlining the existing knowledge on air pollution's societal impacts and the dynamics of television viewership trends. We then elucidate our methodological approach, laying bare the meticulous steps we undertook to analyze and scrutinize the data. Our findings, while surprising, underscore the compelling interplay between environmental variables and cultural phenomena, and spur on further contemplation of the intricate web of connections that permeate our daily lives.

So, buckle up for an academic rollercoaster ride infused with whimsy and wonder as we navigate through the intriguing undercurrents of Anchorage's air pollution and the soap opera aficionados of Days of Our Lives. The threads may appear tangled at first glance, but as we unravel the fabric of this unanticipated relationship, we are reminded that even in the world of quantitative inquiry, there is always room for a touch of the unexpected.


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 Anchorage and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. 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 a couple popular internet memes that are related to one of the topics.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Air Pollution in Anchorage: An Unexpected Influence on the Viewership Count for Days of Our Lives

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera, Days of Our Lives. Drawing upon data obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, our research team scrutinized the correlation between these seemingly disparate variables over a span of four decades (1980-2021). Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a notable correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicative of a statistically significant association. The implications of this unanticipated connection pique curiosity and offer a whimsical perspective on the multifaceted influence of environmental factors on popular culture. This study serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly unrelated phenomena may share an underlying bond, and encourages further exploration of unconventional correlations in the realm of societal trends and environmental impact.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The influence of environmental factors on various social and cultural phenomena has been a subject of considerable interest and debate in recent years. While the impact of air pollution on human health and ecosystems is widely acknowledged and extensively studied, the potential influence of atmospheric conditions on television viewership count remains an unexpected and relatively unexplored area of investigation. In this study, we embark on a quest to unravel the enigmatic connection between air pollution in Anchorage, Alaska, and the viewership count for the enduring soap opera, Days of Our Lives.
Anchorage, known for its stunning natural landscapes and robust wildlife, also contends with its fair share of air pollution, primarily stemming from industrial activities and vehicular emissions. Meanwhile, Days of Our Lives, a beloved staple of daytime television, has kept audiences engrossed in its convoluted plotlines and dramatic sagas for over half a century. One might be forgiven for failing to draw a line between the two seemingly incongruous entities, yet our curiosity was piqued by the possibility of an underlying correlation.
As we delve into this peculiar association, we are mindful of the playful and whimsical nature of our investigation. While the premise may elicit a chuckle or two, the statistical rigor and methodological integrity of our analysis are not to be underestimated. With a statistical correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, we have arrived at the precipice of an unforeseen revelation, where the seemingly unrelated becomes unexpectedly intertwined.
In the following sections, we present a detailed review of the relevant literature, outlining the existing knowledge on air pollution's societal impacts and the dynamics of television viewership trends. We then elucidate our methodological approach, laying bare the meticulous steps we undertook to analyze and scrutinize the data. Our findings, while surprising, underscore the compelling interplay between environmental variables and cultural phenomena, and spur on further contemplation of the intricate web of connections that permeate our daily lives.
So, buckle up for an academic rollercoaster ride infused with whimsy and wonder as we navigate through the intriguing undercurrents of Anchorage's air pollution and the soap opera aficionados of Days of Our Lives. The threads may appear tangled at first glance, but as we unravel the fabric of this unanticipated relationship, we are reminded that even in the world of quantitative inquiry, there is always room for a touch of the unexpected.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The inquiry into the unanticipated relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for Days of Our Lives stands as an amusing departure from the traditional domains of environmental and television studies. While scholarly investigations by esteemed researchers such as Smith and Doe have notably explored the societal impacts of air pollution, the connection to the viewership count of a long-standing soap opera is a delightful divergence from the norm. With a statistical correlation coefficient that leaves one pondering the improbable, our inquiry prompts a whimsical journey into the interplay of seemingly incongruous variables.

In "Air Pollution and Society," Smith et al. provide a comprehensive analysis of the far-reaching consequences of air pollution on human health and societal well-being. Nevertheless, the peculiar repercussions on a television show’s viewership remain markedly underreported. Meanwhile, in "Television Viewership Trends in the 21st Century," Doe et al. meticulously dissect the ever-shifting patterns of television audience engagement, yet regrettably overlook the potential influence of atmospheric conditions on viewership metrics. The literature, thus far, leaves much to be desired in terms of exploring the synergies between these seemingly unrelated realms.

Drawing from non-fiction literature on environmental phenomena, the works of Jones in "The Invisible Influence of Air Pollution" and "Environmental Psychology" by Smith offer informative perspectives on the subtle influence of environmental factors on human behavior. Furthermore, the novels "The Air We Breathe" by Andrea Barrett and "Purity" by Jonathan Franzen delve into the implications of pollution on human experience, presenting a more metaphorical approach to the complex relationship between individuals and their surroundings – albeit without explicitly referencing television viewership counts.

Turning to the realm of popular fiction, the fictional works "The Smog of Suspicion" and "Murder in the Hazy City" weave gripping narratives around air pollution, teasing at the possibility of atmospheric conditions playing a dramatic role in the lives of their characters, albeit with a distinct absence of soap opera references. In an unexpected turn, the popular internet meme of "Distracted Boyfriend" humorously captures the ephemeral allure of fleeting diversions, akin to the enthralling drama of a soap opera, although the meme's direct relevance to air pollution or television viewership remains tenuous.

As we venture deeper into the unexplored junction of air pollution and soap opera viewership, we are reminded of the unexpected, the delightful, and the hitherto uncharted pathways of scholarly inquiry. The stage is set for our methodological exposition, where we unravel the playful grip of Anchorage's air pollution on the devoted audiences of Days of Our Lives, with a statistically significant twist that defies expectation. So, prepare for an intellectual escapade infused with humorous interjections and delightful revelations as we delve into the insightful complications of seemingly unrelated phenomena.


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 Anchorage and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. 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 Wikipedia . You used data from 1980 to 2021

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]]
Air Pollution in Anchorage: An Unexpected Influence on the Viewership Count for Days of Our Lives

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera, Days of Our Lives. Drawing upon data obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, our research team scrutinized the correlation between these seemingly disparate variables over a span of four decades (1980-2021). Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a notable correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicative of a statistically significant association. The implications of this unanticipated connection pique curiosity and offer a whimsical perspective on the multifaceted influence of environmental factors on popular culture. This study serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly unrelated phenomena may share an underlying bond, and encourages further exploration of unconventional correlations in the realm of societal trends and environmental impact.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The influence of environmental factors on various social and cultural phenomena has been a subject of considerable interest and debate in recent years. While the impact of air pollution on human health and ecosystems is widely acknowledged and extensively studied, the potential influence of atmospheric conditions on television viewership count remains an unexpected and relatively unexplored area of investigation. In this study, we embark on a quest to unravel the enigmatic connection between air pollution in Anchorage, Alaska, and the viewership count for the enduring soap opera, Days of Our Lives.
Anchorage, known for its stunning natural landscapes and robust wildlife, also contends with its fair share of air pollution, primarily stemming from industrial activities and vehicular emissions. Meanwhile, Days of Our Lives, a beloved staple of daytime television, has kept audiences engrossed in its convoluted plotlines and dramatic sagas for over half a century. One might be forgiven for failing to draw a line between the two seemingly incongruous entities, yet our curiosity was piqued by the possibility of an underlying correlation.
As we delve into this peculiar association, we are mindful of the playful and whimsical nature of our investigation. While the premise may elicit a chuckle or two, the statistical rigor and methodological integrity of our analysis are not to be underestimated. With a statistical correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, we have arrived at the precipice of an unforeseen revelation, where the seemingly unrelated becomes unexpectedly intertwined.
In the following sections, we present a detailed review of the relevant literature, outlining the existing knowledge on air pollution's societal impacts and the dynamics of television viewership trends. We then elucidate our methodological approach, laying bare the meticulous steps we undertook to analyze and scrutinize the data. Our findings, while surprising, underscore the compelling interplay between environmental variables and cultural phenomena, and spur on further contemplation of the intricate web of connections that permeate our daily lives.
So, buckle up for an academic rollercoaster ride infused with whimsy and wonder as we navigate through the intriguing undercurrents of Anchorage's air pollution and the soap opera aficionados of Days of Our Lives. The threads may appear tangled at first glance, but as we unravel the fabric of this unanticipated relationship, we are reminded that even in the world of quantitative inquiry, there is always room for a touch of the unexpected.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To examine the purported link between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for Days of Our Lives, the research team embarked on a methodological journey that traversed the realms of statistical analysis, data curation, and sheer whimsy. The study utilized a retrospective observational design, employing publicly available data sources such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the vaunted bastion of knowledge, Wikipedia. Embracing the spirit of unconventional inquiry, our team deftly gathered data spanning four decades, from the heady days of 1980 to the present tumultuous year of 2021.

The first step in this esoteric escapade involved the acquisition of air pollution data in Anchorage, Alaska. Leveraging EPA's comprehensive records, we meticulously collected air quality indices, particulate matter levels, and an assortment of gaseous emissions with a keen eye for the unexpected. In a fit of whimsy, the team also delved into the annals of Wikipedia for context and historical insights into Anchorage's environmental evolution, recognizing that amidst the scholarly pursuit, a touch of serendipity can yield unforeseen revelations.

Turning our attention to the seemingly unrelated domain of television viewership, the research team combed through historical records, digital archives, and obscure corners of the web to procure ratings data for Days of Our Lives. With an air of quirkiness befitting the subject matter, we navigated the labyrinth of television metrics with a sense of humor and a determination to uncover the elusive link between air quality and soap opera indulgence.

Intriguingly, our methodological odyssey was not without its own dramatic plot twists. The fusion of statistical techniques, with a dash of unconventional thinking, culminated in the computation of correlation coefficients and p-values to ascertain the strength and significance of the purported connection. Through the wizardry of statistical software, we conjured visualizations and regression analyses, attempting to distill the complex interplay of air pollution and soap opera aficionados into digestible, and dare we say, palatable insights.

It is imperative to underscore that amidst the whimsical nature of our exploration, the rigor and integrity of our methodological approach remained steadfast. While our journey may have been adorned with a flourish of playful innovation, the foundation of our analysis rests on sound statistical principles and a commitment to unearthing unconventional correlations with scholarly precision.

Our endeavor imbued the traditionally staid domain of research methodologies with a sprinkle of unpredictability and a generous dose of charm. As we unveil the empirical narrative in the subsequent findings section, it is our hope that our foray into this unanticipated juxtaposition of air pollution and soap operas sparks imagination and mirth, infusing academic inquiry with a touch of the unexpected.


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 Anchorage and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. 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 Wikipedia .

For the time period 1980 to 2021, you found a correlation 0.7599130, r-squared of 0.5774677, 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]]
Air Pollution in Anchorage: An Unexpected Influence on the Viewership Count for Days of Our Lives

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera, Days of Our Lives. Drawing upon data obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, our research team scrutinized the correlation between these seemingly disparate variables over a span of four decades (1980-2021). Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a notable correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicative of a statistically significant association. The implications of this unanticipated connection pique curiosity and offer a whimsical perspective on the multifaceted influence of environmental factors on popular culture. This study serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly unrelated phenomena may share an underlying bond, and encourages further exploration of unconventional correlations in the realm of societal trends and environmental impact.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The influence of environmental factors on various social and cultural phenomena has been a subject of considerable interest and debate in recent years. While the impact of air pollution on human health and ecosystems is widely acknowledged and extensively studied, the potential influence of atmospheric conditions on television viewership count remains an unexpected and relatively unexplored area of investigation. In this study, we embark on a quest to unravel the enigmatic connection between air pollution in Anchorage, Alaska, and the viewership count for the enduring soap opera, Days of Our Lives.
Anchorage, known for its stunning natural landscapes and robust wildlife, also contends with its fair share of air pollution, primarily stemming from industrial activities and vehicular emissions. Meanwhile, Days of Our Lives, a beloved staple of daytime television, has kept audiences engrossed in its convoluted plotlines and dramatic sagas for over half a century. One might be forgiven for failing to draw a line between the two seemingly incongruous entities, yet our curiosity was piqued by the possibility of an underlying correlation.
As we delve into this peculiar association, we are mindful of the playful and whimsical nature of our investigation. While the premise may elicit a chuckle or two, the statistical rigor and methodological integrity of our analysis are not to be underestimated. With a statistical correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, we have arrived at the precipice of an unforeseen revelation, where the seemingly unrelated becomes unexpectedly intertwined.
In the following sections, we present a detailed review of the relevant literature, outlining the existing knowledge on air pollution's societal impacts and the dynamics of television viewership trends. We then elucidate our methodological approach, laying bare the meticulous steps we undertook to analyze and scrutinize the data. Our findings, while surprising, underscore the compelling interplay between environmental variables and cultural phenomena, and spur on further contemplation of the intricate web of connections that permeate our daily lives.
So, buckle up for an academic rollercoaster ride infused with whimsy and wonder as we navigate through the intriguing undercurrents of Anchorage's air pollution and the soap opera aficionados of Days of Our Lives. The threads may appear tangled at first glance, but as we unravel the fabric of this unanticipated relationship, we are reminded that even in the world of quantitative inquiry, there is always room for a touch of the unexpected.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The statistical analysis of the relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for Days of Our Lives yielded intriguing results. The correlation coefficient of 0.7599130, with an r-squared of 0.5774677, indicated a strong positive association between these seemingly disparate variables. This finding, while initially perplexing, invites us to ponder the whimsical dance of statistical patterns that underlie the tapestry of societal phenomena.

Furthermore, the p-value of less than 0.01 provides robust evidence to support the contention that there is indeed a statistically significant connection between air pollution levels in Anchorage and the number of avid viewers tuning in to the melodramatic escapades of the iconic soap opera. This revelation tickles the intellect and prods us to recognize that statistical relationships, much like the twists and turns of soap opera plotlines, can often elicit surprise and amusement.

To visually underscore our findings, Figure 1 presents a scatterplot encapsulating the potent correlation between air pollution and Days of Our Lives viewership count. The plot vividly illustrates the compelling intertwining of these variables, serving as a testament to the unexpected connections that arise when delving into the annals of data analysis.

In light of these results, we are called to question the traditional boundaries delineating environmental influences and cultural phenomena. The interplay between the atmospheric conditions of Alaska's largest city and the engrossing narratives of the fictional town of Salem prompts us to embrace the delightful enigma of their interconnectedness.

Overall, our findings not only substantiate the presence of a substantial correlation but also beckon further exploration into the captivating interplay between ecological factors and entertainment preferences. The implications of this unorthodox bond serve as a reminder that even in the realm of statistics, the universe of relationships is a place ripe with whimsical surprises and unexpected ties.


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 Anchorage and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. 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]]
Air Pollution in Anchorage: An Unexpected Influence on the Viewership Count for Days of Our Lives

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera, Days of Our Lives. Drawing upon data obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, our research team scrutinized the correlation between these seemingly disparate variables over a span of four decades (1980-2021). Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a notable correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicative of a statistically significant association. The implications of this unanticipated connection pique curiosity and offer a whimsical perspective on the multifaceted influence of environmental factors on popular culture. This study serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly unrelated phenomena may share an underlying bond, and encourages further exploration of unconventional correlations in the realm of societal trends and environmental impact.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The inquiry into the unanticipated relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for Days of Our Lives stands as an amusing departure from the traditional domains of environmental and television studies. While scholarly investigations by esteemed researchers such as Smith and Doe have notably explored the societal impacts of air pollution, the connection to the viewership count of a long-standing soap opera is a delightful divergence from the norm. With a statistical correlation coefficient that leaves one pondering the improbable, our inquiry prompts a whimsical journey into the interplay of seemingly incongruous variables.
In "Air Pollution and Society," Smith et al. provide a comprehensive analysis of the far-reaching consequences of air pollution on human health and societal well-being. Nevertheless, the peculiar repercussions on a television show’s viewership remain markedly underreported. Meanwhile, in "Television Viewership Trends in the 21st Century," Doe et al. meticulously dissect the ever-shifting patterns of television audience engagement, yet regrettably overlook the potential influence of atmospheric conditions on viewership metrics. The literature, thus far, leaves much to be desired in terms of exploring the synergies between these seemingly unrelated realms.
Drawing from non-fiction literature on environmental phenomena, the works of Jones in "The Invisible Influence of Air Pollution" and "Environmental Psychology" by Smith offer informative perspectives on the subtle influence of environmental factors on human behavior. Furthermore, the novels "The Air We Breathe" by Andrea Barrett and "Purity" by Jonathan Franzen delve into the implications of pollution on human experience, presenting a more metaphorical approach to the complex relationship between individuals and their surroundings – albeit without explicitly referencing television viewership counts.
Turning to the realm of popular fiction, the fictional works "The Smog of Suspicion" and "Murder in the Hazy City" weave gripping narratives around air pollution, teasing at the possibility of atmospheric conditions playing a dramatic role in the lives of their characters, albeit with a distinct absence of soap opera references. In an unexpected turn, the popular internet meme of "Distracted Boyfriend" humorously captures the ephemeral allure of fleeting diversions, akin to the enthralling drama of a soap opera, although the meme's direct relevance to air pollution or television viewership remains tenuous.
As we venture deeper into the unexplored junction of air pollution and soap opera viewership, we are reminded of the unexpected, the delightful, and the hitherto uncharted pathways of scholarly inquiry. The stage is set for our methodological exposition, where we unravel the playful grip of Anchorage's air pollution on the devoted audiences of Days of Our Lives, with a statistically significant twist that defies expectation. So, prepare for an intellectual escapade infused with humorous interjections and delightful revelations as we delve into the insightful complications of seemingly unrelated phenomena.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for Days of Our Lives yielded intriguing results. The correlation coefficient of 0.7599130, with an r-squared of 0.5774677, indicated a strong positive association between these seemingly disparate variables. This finding, while initially perplexing, invites us to ponder the whimsical dance of statistical patterns that underlie the tapestry of societal phenomena.
Furthermore, the p-value of less than 0.01 provides robust evidence to support the contention that there is indeed a statistically significant connection between air pollution levels in Anchorage and the number of avid viewers tuning in to the melodramatic escapades of the iconic soap opera. This revelation tickles the intellect and prods us to recognize that statistical relationships, much like the twists and turns of soap opera plotlines, can often elicit surprise and amusement.
To visually underscore our findings, Figure 1 presents a scatterplot encapsulating the potent correlation between air pollution and Days of Our Lives viewership count. The plot vividly illustrates the compelling intertwining of these variables, serving as a testament to the unexpected connections that arise when delving into the annals of data analysis.
In light of these results, we are called to question the traditional boundaries delineating environmental influences and cultural phenomena. The interplay between the atmospheric conditions of Alaska's largest city and the engrossing narratives of the fictional town of Salem prompts us to embrace the delightful enigma of their interconnectedness.
Overall, our findings not only substantiate the presence of a substantial correlation but also beckon further exploration into the captivating interplay between ecological factors and entertainment preferences. The implications of this unorthodox bond serve as a reminder that even in the realm of statistics, the universe of relationships is a place ripe with whimsical surprises and unexpected ties.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The curious correlation between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for Days of Our Lives has sparked intriguing dialogue among academia and the public alike. Our results provide compelling evidence of a substantial positive association between these seemingly disparate variables, substantiating the unanticipated link that had previously been a speculative jest in the realms of statistical inquiry.

Drawing from the whimsical perspectives highlighted in the literature review, our findings cast the spotlight on the unconventional synergies between environmental factors and cultural preferences. While it may initially appear as an intellectual flight of fancy, our statistically significant correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 supports the increasingly recognized notion that even the most unexpected pairings can reveal meaningful connections. The p-value less than 0.01 further solidifies the robustness of this association, prompting a wry nod at the capricious nature of statistical revelations.

In echoing the scholarly musings on the intertwined influence of environmental conditions and societal trends, our results endorse the enthralling notion that the atmospheric tapestry of Anchorage weaves an invisible thread that captures the attention of fervent soap opera enthusiasts. This unexpected bond challenges traditional perceptions of the boundaries between ecological realms and cultural inclinations, inviting playful contemplation on the nuanced pathways through which seemingly unrelated phenomena coalesce.

Amidst the solemn discourse on statistical significance, we are reminded of the delightful deviations and hidden whimsy nestled within the spectrum of research inquiries. The unexpected correlation uncovered in our study tickles the discerning intellect and beckons scholars to not only explore the potential mechanisms underlying this enigmatic bond but also to appreciate the charming caprice of statistical revelations.

As we stride forth in the scholarly pursuit of understanding the peculiar interplay between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for Days of Our Lives, our findings serve as a lighthearted reminder that the world of statistics is a realm ripe with surprises, akin to the gripping plot twists of a beloved soap opera. This unforeseen connection perpetuates the playful discourse on the interconnectedness of seemingly incongruous variables, encapsulating the enchanting allure of scholarly discovery amidst the captivating drama of statistical revelation.


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 Anchorage and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. 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]]
Air Pollution in Anchorage: An Unexpected Influence on the Viewership Count for Days of Our Lives

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera, Days of Our Lives. Drawing upon data obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, our research team scrutinized the correlation between these seemingly disparate variables over a span of four decades (1980-2021). Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a notable correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicative of a statistically significant association. The implications of this unanticipated connection pique curiosity and offer a whimsical perspective on the multifaceted influence of environmental factors on popular culture. This study serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly unrelated phenomena may share an underlying bond, and encourages further exploration of unconventional correlations in the realm of societal trends and environmental impact.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The influence of environmental factors on various social and cultural phenomena has been a subject of considerable interest and debate in recent years. While the impact of air pollution on human health and ecosystems is widely acknowledged and extensively studied, the potential influence of atmospheric conditions on television viewership count remains an unexpected and relatively unexplored area of investigation. In this study, we embark on a quest to unravel the enigmatic connection between air pollution in Anchorage, Alaska, and the viewership count for the enduring soap opera, Days of Our Lives.
Anchorage, known for its stunning natural landscapes and robust wildlife, also contends with its fair share of air pollution, primarily stemming from industrial activities and vehicular emissions. Meanwhile, Days of Our Lives, a beloved staple of daytime television, has kept audiences engrossed in its convoluted plotlines and dramatic sagas for over half a century. One might be forgiven for failing to draw a line between the two seemingly incongruous entities, yet our curiosity was piqued by the possibility of an underlying correlation.
As we delve into this peculiar association, we are mindful of the playful and whimsical nature of our investigation. While the premise may elicit a chuckle or two, the statistical rigor and methodological integrity of our analysis are not to be underestimated. With a statistical correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, we have arrived at the precipice of an unforeseen revelation, where the seemingly unrelated becomes unexpectedly intertwined.
In the following sections, we present a detailed review of the relevant literature, outlining the existing knowledge on air pollution's societal impacts and the dynamics of television viewership trends. We then elucidate our methodological approach, laying bare the meticulous steps we undertook to analyze and scrutinize the data. Our findings, while surprising, underscore the compelling interplay between environmental variables and cultural phenomena, and spur on further contemplation of the intricate web of connections that permeate our daily lives.
So, buckle up for an academic rollercoaster ride infused with whimsy and wonder as we navigate through the intriguing undercurrents of Anchorage's air pollution and the soap opera aficionados of Days of Our Lives. The threads may appear tangled at first glance, but as we unravel the fabric of this unanticipated relationship, we are reminded that even in the world of quantitative inquiry, there is always room for a touch of the unexpected.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for Days of Our Lives yielded intriguing results. The correlation coefficient of 0.7599130, with an r-squared of 0.5774677, indicated a strong positive association between these seemingly disparate variables. This finding, while initially perplexing, invites us to ponder the whimsical dance of statistical patterns that underlie the tapestry of societal phenomena.
Furthermore, the p-value of less than 0.01 provides robust evidence to support the contention that there is indeed a statistically significant connection between air pollution levels in Anchorage and the number of avid viewers tuning in to the melodramatic escapades of the iconic soap opera. This revelation tickles the intellect and prods us to recognize that statistical relationships, much like the twists and turns of soap opera plotlines, can often elicit surprise and amusement.
To visually underscore our findings, Figure 1 presents a scatterplot encapsulating the potent correlation between air pollution and Days of Our Lives viewership count. The plot vividly illustrates the compelling intertwining of these variables, serving as a testament to the unexpected connections that arise when delving into the annals of data analysis.
In light of these results, we are called to question the traditional boundaries delineating environmental influences and cultural phenomena. The interplay between the atmospheric conditions of Alaska's largest city and the engrossing narratives of the fictional town of Salem prompts us to embrace the delightful enigma of their interconnectedness.
Overall, our findings not only substantiate the presence of a substantial correlation but also beckon further exploration into the captivating interplay between ecological factors and entertainment preferences. The implications of this unorthodox bond serve as a reminder that even in the realm of statistics, the universe of relationships is a place ripe with whimsical surprises and unexpected ties.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, the unexpected correlation between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for Days of Our Lives has been meticulously scrutinized and robustly supported in this study. Our findings highlight the whimsical and seemingly improbable intersection of environmental factors and cultural phenomena, shedding light on the intricate web of connections that permeates our daily lives. The statistically significant correlation coefficient of 0.7599130, accompanied by a p-value less than 0.01, underlines the potency of this relationship, prompting us to appreciate the delightful enigma of their interconnectedness.

While our investigation may raise an eyebrow or two, the empirical rigor and meticulous data analysis have laid bare the intriguing dance of statistical patterns that intertwine seemingly disparate variables. As we reflect on the interplay between atmospheric conditions and the captivating narratives of Days of Our Lives, we are reminded that statistical relationships, much like the twists and turns of soap opera plotlines, often hold surprises and amusement.

However, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of our study, including the contextual specificity of the observed correlation and the need for further research to explore potential mechanisms underlying this unanticipated connection. Nonetheless, our research serves as a whimsical reminder that even in the realm of statistics, there is always room for the unexpected.

In light of our findings, the practical implications of this unorthodox bond beckon further exploration and inspire a lighthearted contemplation of the unconventional correlations that underlie societal trends and environmental impact. However, it is worthwhile to note that our study's primary objective was not to establish causality but rather to unravel the statistical patterns underlying this unexpected relationship. As such, no more research is needed in this area. With this, we bid adieu to the whimsical world of Anchorage's air pollution and the melodramatic allure of Days of Our Lives, leaving a statistical legacy that defies the ordinary and embraces the delightfully unexpected.


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 Air Pollution in Anchorage: An Unexpected Influence on the Viewership Count for Days of Our Lives. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Environmental Soap Opera 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 Air Pollution in Anchorage: An Unexpected Influence on the Viewership Count for Days of Our Lives. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for Environmental and Soap Opera 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 Air Pollution in Anchorage: An Unexpected Influence on the Viewership Count for Days of Our Lives with an abstract of This study delves into the unlikely relationship between air pollution in Anchorage and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera, Days of Our Lives. Drawing upon data obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, our research team scrutinized the correlation between these seemingly disparate variables over a span of four decades (1980-2021). Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a notable correlation coefficient of 0.7599130 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicative of a statistically significant association. The implications of this unanticipated connection pique curiosity and offer a whimsical perspective on the multifaceted influence of environmental factors on popular culture. This study serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly unrelated phenomena may share an underlying bond, and encourages further exploration of unconventional correlations in the realm of societal trends and environmental impact.

ChatGPT:

Air pollution, Anchorage, viewership count, Days of Our Lives, soap opera, correlation, environmental impact, EPA data, statistical analysis, societal trends, unexpected correlations

*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 Anchorage
Detailed data title: Percentage of days with moderate or worse air quality in Anchorage, AK
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
See what else correlates with Air pollution in Anchorage

Viewership count for Days of Our Lives
Detailed data title: Metered viewership count for Days of Our Lives
Source: Wikipedia
See what else correlates with Viewership count for Days of Our Lives

Correlation r = 0.7599130 (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 = 0.5774677 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 57.7% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Viewership count for Days of Our Lives) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Air pollution in Anchorage) over the 42 years from 1980 through 2021.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 5.3E-9. 0.0000000053376877160227615000
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 0.76 in 5.3E-7% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 187,347,041 random variables You don't actually need 187 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 41 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 41 because we have two variables measured over a period of 42 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.

[ 0.59, 0.86 ] 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.
198019811982198319841985198619871988198919901991199219931994199519961997199819992000200120022003200420052006200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021
Air pollution in Anchorage (Bad air quality days)44.808743.287749.041151.232944.808737.534245.479539.655239.452137.543.250741.758251.923140.055236.740332.506935.042726.111127.900623.322715.73772017.763213.87113.029316.831716.233811.290311.538522.86521.369923.287730.327922.191832.602727.671231.420821.643819.72628.219210.92919.726
Viewership count for Days of Our Lives (Nielson share)560000055000005700000710000071000007200000700000071000006500000540000052000005400000490000056000005300000580000058000005100000580000042000003800000360000031000003100000270000026000002300000210000022000002200000200000020000002100000190000020500001800000160000016000001600000140000012000001200000




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([44.8087,43.2877,49.0411,51.2329,44.8087,37.5342,45.4795,39.6552,39.4521,37.5,43.2507,41.7582,51.9231,40.0552,36.7403,32.5069,35.0427,26.1111,27.9006,23.3227,15.7377,20,17.7632,13.871,13.0293,16.8317,16.2338,11.2903,11.5385,22.865,21.3699,23.2877,30.3279,22.1918,32.6027,27.6712,31.4208,21.6438,19.726,28.2192,10.929,19.726,])
array_2 = np.array([5600000,5500000,5700000,7100000,7100000,7200000,7000000,7100000,6500000,5400000,5200000,5400000,4900000,5600000,5300000,5800000,5800000,5100000,5800000,4200000,3800000,3600000,3100000,3100000,2700000,2600000,2300000,2100000,2200000,2200000,2000000,2000000,2100000,1900000,2050000,1800000,1600000,1600000,1600000,1400000,1200000,1200000,])
array_1_name = "Air pollution in Anchorage"
array_2_name = "Viewership count for Days of Our Lives"

# 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.

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