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Spurious correlation #3,459 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Popularity of the first name Benny and the second variable is Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming.  The chart goes from 1985 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

The name Benny became so popular that every time someone in Wyoming shouted, "Benny, stop!" it inadvertently activated a swarm of remote-controlled car thieves with a peculiar affinity for the name. It got to the point where law enforcement had to issue a statewide PSA, urging parents to consider the potential consequences before naming their children after their beloved grandpas or favorite breakfast food.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate an image that looks like it is a scene from a Pixar movie, depicting a small town in Wyoming where the name Benny has become increasingly popular among parents. The scene shows a group of young Bennys joyriding stolen cars, with screeching tires and flashing police lights filling the air. The town is depicted with colorful, charming buildings and a beautiful, picturesque landscape in the background. The image should capture the excitement and mischief of the young Bennys as well as the chaos they are causing in a visually engaging and dynamic manner, reminiscent of the style of a Pixar movie. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.
This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: Popularity of the first name Benny and Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. 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: Photorealism Magic realism An image that looks like it is a scene from a Pixar movie Cubism Art nouveau
ChatGPT: An image that looks like it is a scene from a Pixar movie

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both Popularity of the first name Benny and Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming, in the following situation: because as the popularity of the name Benny increased in Wyoming, more parents named their kids after the famous car thief, Benny the Bandit. This led to a wave of young Benny wannabes breaking into cars and joyriding across the state, causing a spike in motor vehicle thefts. Clearly, Benny's bad reputation is rubbing off on the next generation! ๐Ÿš—๐Ÿ”‘. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a small town in Wyoming, the name Benny has become increasingly popular among parents. As more and more children are named after the infamous car thief, Benny the Bandit, a group of young Bennys are now seen joyriding stolen cars across the state. The sound of screeching tires and flashing police lights fills the air as motor vehicle thefts soar in correlation with the rise in the name Benny.

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 a Pixar movie ] and depicting this scene: In a small town in Wyoming, the name Benny has become increasingly popular among parents. As more and more children are named after the infamous car thief, Benny the Bandit, a group of young Bennys are now seen joyriding stolen cars across the state. The sound of screeching tires and flashing police lights fills the air as motor vehicle thefts soar in correlation with the rise in the name Benny. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate an image that looks like it is a scene from a Pixar movie, depicting a small town in Wyoming where the name Benny has become increasingly popular among parents. The scene shows a group of young Bennys joyriding stolen cars, with screeching tires and flashing police lights filling the air. The town is depicted with colorful, charming buildings and a beautiful, picturesque landscape in the background. The image should capture the excitement and mischief of the young Bennys as well as the chaos they are causing in a visually engaging and dynamic manner, reminiscent of the style of a Pixar movie.

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

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

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

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Benny's Birth Name and Bungling Bandits: A Belabored Burlesque on the Balance of Bouncing Baby Names and Brazen Burglaries in the Big Wyoming Wonderland

The Journal of Ludicrous Linguistics

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

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Benny and Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Make the title an alliteration.

Your research team used data from US Social Security Administration and FBI Criminal Justice Information Services to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and p < 0.01 for 1985 to 2022.

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]]
Benny's Birth Name and Bungling Bandits: A Belabored Burlesque on the Balance of Bouncing Baby Names and Brazen Burglaries in the Big Wyoming Wonderland

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the curious correlation between the prevalence of the given name "Benny" and the frequency of motor vehicle thefts in the state of Wyoming. Drawing from extensive data collected by the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, our research team sought to unravel the enigmatic connection between the popularity of this moniker and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves. With a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022, our findings suggest a tangible association between the two phenomena. While further investigation is warranted to discern the underlying factors at play, our study offers a whimsical window into the curious confluence of nomenclature and nefarious deeds.


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

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Benny and Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. 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]]
Benny's Birth Name and Bungling Bandits: A Belabored Burlesque on the Balance of Bouncing Baby Names and Brazen Burglaries in the Big Wyoming Wonderland

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the curious correlation between the prevalence of the given name "Benny" and the frequency of motor vehicle thefts in the state of Wyoming. Drawing from extensive data collected by the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, our research team sought to unravel the enigmatic connection between the popularity of this moniker and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves. With a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022, our findings suggest a tangible association between the two phenomena. While further investigation is warranted to discern the underlying factors at play, our study offers a whimsical window into the curious confluence of nomenclature and nefarious deeds.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The relationship between names and behavior has long intrigued scholars and laypersons alike, prompting speculation and inquiry into the curious confluence of nomenclature and human activities. In this study, we endeavor to shed light on an obscure yet captivating correlation between the popularity of the given name "Benny" and the incidence of motor vehicle thefts in the picturesque state of Wyoming. One might initially dismiss such a connection as mere happenstance or whimsical fancy, but our meticulous analysis of extensive data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services has revealed a statistically significant association that defies conventional expectations.

While pondering the implications of a name in relation to criminal conduct may seem like a frivolous pursuit, it is imperative to acknowledge the potential impact of nomenclature on behavioral predispositions. As Shakespeare famously mused, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." However, whether the name Benny carries an unwitting association with bungling bandits and brazen burglaries remains a tantalizing enigma that beckons further scrutiny.

Our investigation endeavors to unravel this unconventional correlation, which has raised eyebrows and elicited bemused skepticism within the academic community. The state of Wyoming, with its expansive landscapes and resilient populace, serves as the backdrop for this belabored burlesque of bouncing baby names and brazen thefts. To our surprise, the correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 have compelled us to confront this peculiar linkage with seriousness, albeit with a hint of bemusement. While we do not purport to posit causation, the association between the prevalence of the name "Benny" and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves beckons onlookers to ponder the curious marvels of human behavior and nomenclature.

As we embark on this whimsical odyssey into the world of nomenclature and criminology, we invite our esteemed colleagues to join us in this earnest exploration of a mysterious and often overlooked phenomenon. The findings of this study offer a lighthearted and captivating window into the curious confluence of baby names and illicit activity, fostering an ambience where rigorous research intertwines with subtle amusement. So, with a blend of scholarly seriousness and a dash of levity, let us delve into the delightful discourse on Benny's birth name and the bungling bandits of the big Wyoming wonderland.


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

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Benny and Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. 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 cite some social media posts you read that seem to be related.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Benny's Birth Name and Bungling Bandits: A Belabored Burlesque on the Balance of Bouncing Baby Names and Brazen Burglaries in the Big Wyoming Wonderland

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the curious correlation between the prevalence of the given name "Benny" and the frequency of motor vehicle thefts in the state of Wyoming. Drawing from extensive data collected by the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, our research team sought to unravel the enigmatic connection between the popularity of this moniker and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves. With a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022, our findings suggest a tangible association between the two phenomena. While further investigation is warranted to discern the underlying factors at play, our study offers a whimsical window into the curious confluence of nomenclature and nefarious deeds.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The relationship between names and behavior has long intrigued scholars and laypersons alike, prompting speculation and inquiry into the curious confluence of nomenclature and human activities. In this study, we endeavor to shed light on an obscure yet captivating correlation between the popularity of the given name "Benny" and the incidence of motor vehicle thefts in the picturesque state of Wyoming. One might initially dismiss such a connection as mere happenstance or whimsical fancy, but our meticulous analysis of extensive data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services has revealed a statistically significant association that defies conventional expectations.
While pondering the implications of a name in relation to criminal conduct may seem like a frivolous pursuit, it is imperative to acknowledge the potential impact of nomenclature on behavioral predispositions. As Shakespeare famously mused, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." However, whether the name Benny carries an unwitting association with bungling bandits and brazen burglaries remains a tantalizing enigma that beckons further scrutiny.
Our investigation endeavors to unravel this unconventional correlation, which has raised eyebrows and elicited bemused skepticism within the academic community. The state of Wyoming, with its expansive landscapes and resilient populace, serves as the backdrop for this belabored burlesque of bouncing baby names and brazen thefts. To our surprise, the correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 have compelled us to confront this peculiar linkage with seriousness, albeit with a hint of bemusement. While we do not purport to posit causation, the association between the prevalence of the name "Benny" and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves beckons onlookers to ponder the curious marvels of human behavior and nomenclature.
As we embark on this whimsical odyssey into the world of nomenclature and criminology, we invite our esteemed colleagues to join us in this earnest exploration of a mysterious and often overlooked phenomenon. The findings of this study offer a lighthearted and captivating window into the curious confluence of baby names and illicit activity, fostering an ambience where rigorous research intertwines with subtle amusement. So, with a blend of scholarly seriousness and a dash of levity, let us delve into the delightful discourse on Benny's birth name and the bungling bandits of the big Wyoming wonderland.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

Smith and Doe (2010) conducted a comprehensive study on the relationship between first names and criminal behavior, delving into the complex interplay of nomenclature and illicit activities across different geographical regions. The authors found a modest correlation between certain given names and misdemeanor offenses, prompting intriguing questions about the influence of nomenclature on behavioral predispositions. However, their work primarily focused on a broader spectrum of criminal activities and did not specifically address the correlation with motor vehicle thefts in the state of Wyoming.

Jones (2015) examined the societal implications of distinctive given names and their potential impact on the individuals bearing them. The author highlighted the psychological and sociological ramifications of having an unusual first name, offering insights into how individuals navigate social interactions and self-perception. While the study did not directly explore criminal tendencies associated with specific names, it did shed light on the intricate relationship between nomenclature and social dynamics, hinting at the potential relevance of such factors in the context of criminal behavior.

Turning to the realm of non-fiction literature, "Freakonomics" by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner (2005) presents a compelling exploration of unconventional social phenomena and their underlying economic and behavioral drivers. Although not directly related to the correlation between first names and criminal activities, the book provides an engaging perspective on the unexpected connections that shape human behavior, offering a whimsical framework for contemplating the enigmatic relationship between nomenclature and criminal proclivities.

In a fictitious context, works such as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle" and Agatha Christie's "The Mystery of the Blue Train" evoke a sense of intrigue and enigma reminiscent of the curious correlation under investigation. While these literary masterpieces are not empirical studies, their themes of mystery and unexpected revelations serve as a whimsical parallel to the perplexing association between the name "Benny" and motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming, inviting readers to ponder the whimsical interplay between baby names and criminal escapades.

Adding a contemporary twist, social media posts such as "Benny and the Burglars: A Curious Conspiracy Theory" and "Wyoming Woes: The Benny Bandit Chronicles" surfaced as informal commentaries on the peculiar correlation, intertwining amusement with speculative ponderings. While lacking empirical rigor, these online musings exemplify the public's bemused fascination with the uncanny connection, infusing a touch of levity into the earnest pursuit of unraveling the curious confluence of nomenclature and nefarious deeds.


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

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Benny and Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. 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 US Social Security Administration and FBI Criminal Justice Information Services . You used data from 1985 to 2022

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]]
Benny's Birth Name and Bungling Bandits: A Belabored Burlesque on the Balance of Bouncing Baby Names and Brazen Burglaries in the Big Wyoming Wonderland

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the curious correlation between the prevalence of the given name "Benny" and the frequency of motor vehicle thefts in the state of Wyoming. Drawing from extensive data collected by the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, our research team sought to unravel the enigmatic connection between the popularity of this moniker and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves. With a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022, our findings suggest a tangible association between the two phenomena. While further investigation is warranted to discern the underlying factors at play, our study offers a whimsical window into the curious confluence of nomenclature and nefarious deeds.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The relationship between names and behavior has long intrigued scholars and laypersons alike, prompting speculation and inquiry into the curious confluence of nomenclature and human activities. In this study, we endeavor to shed light on an obscure yet captivating correlation between the popularity of the given name "Benny" and the incidence of motor vehicle thefts in the picturesque state of Wyoming. One might initially dismiss such a connection as mere happenstance or whimsical fancy, but our meticulous analysis of extensive data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services has revealed a statistically significant association that defies conventional expectations.
While pondering the implications of a name in relation to criminal conduct may seem like a frivolous pursuit, it is imperative to acknowledge the potential impact of nomenclature on behavioral predispositions. As Shakespeare famously mused, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." However, whether the name Benny carries an unwitting association with bungling bandits and brazen burglaries remains a tantalizing enigma that beckons further scrutiny.
Our investigation endeavors to unravel this unconventional correlation, which has raised eyebrows and elicited bemused skepticism within the academic community. The state of Wyoming, with its expansive landscapes and resilient populace, serves as the backdrop for this belabored burlesque of bouncing baby names and brazen thefts. To our surprise, the correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 have compelled us to confront this peculiar linkage with seriousness, albeit with a hint of bemusement. While we do not purport to posit causation, the association between the prevalence of the name "Benny" and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves beckons onlookers to ponder the curious marvels of human behavior and nomenclature.
As we embark on this whimsical odyssey into the world of nomenclature and criminology, we invite our esteemed colleagues to join us in this earnest exploration of a mysterious and often overlooked phenomenon. The findings of this study offer a lighthearted and captivating window into the curious confluence of baby names and illicit activity, fostering an ambience where rigorous research intertwines with subtle amusement. So, with a blend of scholarly seriousness and a dash of levity, let us delve into the delightful discourse on Benny's birth name and the bungling bandits of the big Wyoming wonderland.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

Data Collection:
Our research team embarked on a daring digital expedition across the internet's murky depths to gather information on the prevalence of the first name "Benny" and the occurrence of motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. The US Social Security Administration provided a smorgasbord of data on baby names, while the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services offered a treasure trove of crime statistics. Armed with caffeinated beverages and an insatiable curiosity, we scoured the data from 1985 to 2022, braving the labyrinthine corridors of obscure databases and arcane spreadsheets.

Name Popularity Analysis:
To quantify the proliferation of the moniker "Benny," we employed perplexingly sophisticated statistical algorithms that would make even the most erudite statistician raise an eyebrow in bemusement. With a concoction of regression analyses and trend-line calculations, we scrutinized the ebbs and flows of this whimsical appellation throughout the years. Leveraging the bewitching tools of data visualization, we summoned bar graphs and line plots to depict the undulating popularity of "Benny" and its uncanny dance with the passage of time.

Motor Vehicle Theft Examination:
Unraveling the mischievous exploits of motor vehicle thieves in the Wild West state of Wyoming demanded a convergence of forensic prowess and deductive reasoning. We meticulously combed through crime reports, sifting through the illicit escapades of car bandits with a sense of grim determination. Our analysis took us down dusty trails of crime hotspots and into the shadowy alleys of statistical significance.

Correlational Analysis:
With the data at our disposal, we ventured into the enchanting realm of correlation coefficient calculations, where the mystical dance of digits unveils a tale of association. Employing rigorous statistical tools that gleamed with the aura of scientific exactitude, we probed the connection between the popularity of the name "Benny" and the rattling roar of stolen engines. Amidst the sea of numbers and calculations, we voyaged into the heart of statistical significance, where p-values and confidence intervals painted a picture of unrestrained exploration.

Limitations:
While our endeavor exudes an air of intrepid exploration, it is not without its quirks and limitations. The curious correlation we uncovered prompts further investigation, as we revere the spirit of scientific inquiry and are not content with resting on the laurels of mere statistical anarchy. Furthermore, the idiosyncrasies of human behavior and the caprices of nomenclature underscore the intricate tapestry of our discoveries, beckoning us to proceed with cautious optimism and a sprinkle of scholarly mirth.



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

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Benny and Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. 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 US Social Security Administration and FBI Criminal Justice Information Services .

For the time period 1985 to 2022, you found a correlation 0.6549426, r-squared of 0.4289499, 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]]
Benny's Birth Name and Bungling Bandits: A Belabored Burlesque on the Balance of Bouncing Baby Names and Brazen Burglaries in the Big Wyoming Wonderland

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the curious correlation between the prevalence of the given name "Benny" and the frequency of motor vehicle thefts in the state of Wyoming. Drawing from extensive data collected by the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, our research team sought to unravel the enigmatic connection between the popularity of this moniker and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves. With a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022, our findings suggest a tangible association between the two phenomena. While further investigation is warranted to discern the underlying factors at play, our study offers a whimsical window into the curious confluence of nomenclature and nefarious deeds.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The relationship between names and behavior has long intrigued scholars and laypersons alike, prompting speculation and inquiry into the curious confluence of nomenclature and human activities. In this study, we endeavor to shed light on an obscure yet captivating correlation between the popularity of the given name "Benny" and the incidence of motor vehicle thefts in the picturesque state of Wyoming. One might initially dismiss such a connection as mere happenstance or whimsical fancy, but our meticulous analysis of extensive data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services has revealed a statistically significant association that defies conventional expectations.
While pondering the implications of a name in relation to criminal conduct may seem like a frivolous pursuit, it is imperative to acknowledge the potential impact of nomenclature on behavioral predispositions. As Shakespeare famously mused, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." However, whether the name Benny carries an unwitting association with bungling bandits and brazen burglaries remains a tantalizing enigma that beckons further scrutiny.
Our investigation endeavors to unravel this unconventional correlation, which has raised eyebrows and elicited bemused skepticism within the academic community. The state of Wyoming, with its expansive landscapes and resilient populace, serves as the backdrop for this belabored burlesque of bouncing baby names and brazen thefts. To our surprise, the correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 have compelled us to confront this peculiar linkage with seriousness, albeit with a hint of bemusement. While we do not purport to posit causation, the association between the prevalence of the name "Benny" and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves beckons onlookers to ponder the curious marvels of human behavior and nomenclature.
As we embark on this whimsical odyssey into the world of nomenclature and criminology, we invite our esteemed colleagues to join us in this earnest exploration of a mysterious and often overlooked phenomenon. The findings of this study offer a lighthearted and captivating window into the curious confluence of baby names and illicit activity, fostering an ambience where rigorous research intertwines with subtle amusement. So, with a blend of scholarly seriousness and a dash of levity, let us delve into the delightful discourse on Benny's birth name and the bungling bandits of the big Wyoming wonderland.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The data analysis conducted in this study revealed a noteworthy correlation between the popularity of the first name "Benny" and the incidence of motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. Our findings yielded a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426, indicating a moderately strong positive relationship between the prevalence of the given name "Benny" and the frequency of motor vehicle thefts. The r-squared value of 0.4289499 signifies that approximately 42.9% of the variance in motor vehicle thefts can be explained by the prevalence of the name "Benny," a striking result given the seemingly fortuitous nature of this association. The statistical significance of the correlation, with a p-value of less than 0.01, further lends credence to the validity of this unexpected connection.

Figure 1 (not shown here) depicts a scatterplot illustrating the robust correlation between the prevalence of the name "Benny" and the occurrence of motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming, underscoring the tangible nature of this eccentric association. While the intricate nuances of human behavior and nomenclature continue to confound and beguile researchers, our study adds a layer of intrigue to the whimsical interplay between baby names and criminal activities.

Our results provoke reflection on the curious marvels of human behavior and nomenclature, and while we maintain a stance of scholarly rigor, we cannot help but be amused by the enigmatic confluence of bouncing baby names and brazen burglaries in the big Wyoming wonderland.

As we proceed to further scrutinize the underlying mechanisms of this connection, our findings encourage academic discourse that blends scholarly solemnity with a dash of levity, inviting researchers to engage in a delightful discourse on the bemusing correlation between Benny's birth name and the bungling bandits of Wyoming.


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

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Benny and Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. 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]]
Benny's Birth Name and Bungling Bandits: A Belabored Burlesque on the Balance of Bouncing Baby Names and Brazen Burglaries in the Big Wyoming Wonderland

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the curious correlation between the prevalence of the given name "Benny" and the frequency of motor vehicle thefts in the state of Wyoming. Drawing from extensive data collected by the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, our research team sought to unravel the enigmatic connection between the popularity of this moniker and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves. With a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022, our findings suggest a tangible association between the two phenomena. While further investigation is warranted to discern the underlying factors at play, our study offers a whimsical window into the curious confluence of nomenclature and nefarious deeds.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
Smith and Doe (2010) conducted a comprehensive study on the relationship between first names and criminal behavior, delving into the complex interplay of nomenclature and illicit activities across different geographical regions. The authors found a modest correlation between certain given names and misdemeanor offenses, prompting intriguing questions about the influence of nomenclature on behavioral predispositions. However, their work primarily focused on a broader spectrum of criminal activities and did not specifically address the correlation with motor vehicle thefts in the state of Wyoming.
Jones (2015) examined the societal implications of distinctive given names and their potential impact on the individuals bearing them. The author highlighted the psychological and sociological ramifications of having an unusual first name, offering insights into how individuals navigate social interactions and self-perception. While the study did not directly explore criminal tendencies associated with specific names, it did shed light on the intricate relationship between nomenclature and social dynamics, hinting at the potential relevance of such factors in the context of criminal behavior.
Turning to the realm of non-fiction literature, "Freakonomics" by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner (2005) presents a compelling exploration of unconventional social phenomena and their underlying economic and behavioral drivers. Although not directly related to the correlation between first names and criminal activities, the book provides an engaging perspective on the unexpected connections that shape human behavior, offering a whimsical framework for contemplating the enigmatic relationship between nomenclature and criminal proclivities.
In a fictitious context, works such as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle" and Agatha Christie's "The Mystery of the Blue Train" evoke a sense of intrigue and enigma reminiscent of the curious correlation under investigation. While these literary masterpieces are not empirical studies, their themes of mystery and unexpected revelations serve as a whimsical parallel to the perplexing association between the name "Benny" and motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming, inviting readers to ponder the whimsical interplay between baby names and criminal escapades.
Adding a contemporary twist, social media posts such as "Benny and the Burglars: A Curious Conspiracy Theory" and "Wyoming Woes: The Benny Bandit Chronicles" surfaced as informal commentaries on the peculiar correlation, intertwining amusement with speculative ponderings. While lacking empirical rigor, these online musings exemplify the public's bemused fascination with the uncanny connection, infusing a touch of levity into the earnest pursuit of unraveling the curious confluence of nomenclature and nefarious deeds.

[[RESULTS]]
The data analysis conducted in this study revealed a noteworthy correlation between the popularity of the first name "Benny" and the incidence of motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. Our findings yielded a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426, indicating a moderately strong positive relationship between the prevalence of the given name "Benny" and the frequency of motor vehicle thefts. The r-squared value of 0.4289499 signifies that approximately 42.9% of the variance in motor vehicle thefts can be explained by the prevalence of the name "Benny," a striking result given the seemingly fortuitous nature of this association. The statistical significance of the correlation, with a p-value of less than 0.01, further lends credence to the validity of this unexpected connection.
Figure 1 (not shown here) depicts a scatterplot illustrating the robust correlation between the prevalence of the name "Benny" and the occurrence of motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming, underscoring the tangible nature of this eccentric association. While the intricate nuances of human behavior and nomenclature continue to confound and beguile researchers, our study adds a layer of intrigue to the whimsical interplay between baby names and criminal activities.
Our results provoke reflection on the curious marvels of human behavior and nomenclature, and while we maintain a stance of scholarly rigor, we cannot help but be amused by the enigmatic confluence of bouncing baby names and brazen burglaries in the big Wyoming wonderland.
As we proceed to further scrutinize the underlying mechanisms of this connection, our findings encourage academic discourse that blends scholarly solemnity with a dash of levity, inviting researchers to engage in a delightful discourse on the bemusing correlation between Benny's birth name and the bungling bandits of Wyoming.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The interplay between nomenclature and nefarious deeds has long captivated the imagination of researchers, often leading to both serious inquiry and lighthearted speculation. The findings of the current study echo the sentiments of Smith and Doe (2010), who touched upon the correlation between given names and criminal behavior, albeit in a more general context. Jones (2015) further underscored the societal implications of distinctive given names, hinting at the potential relevance of such factors in the context of criminal behavior. These prior works, though not directly examining the correlation with motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming, indeed paved the way for our curious investigation.

While "Freakonomics" may be primarily regarded as an insightful investigation into the unorthodox connections that shape societal behavior and economic paradigms, its whimsical approach serves as a lighthearted parallel to our curiosity about the unexpected relationship between nomenclature and criminal proclivities. The fictitious adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot provide a whimsical resonance to our endeavors, as they demonstrate the enduring fascination with enigmatic correlations, inviting readers to ponder the intriguing interplay between baby names and criminal escapades.

The statistical significance of our findings offers compelling support for the notion that the popularity of the name "Benny" is indeed associated with the frequency of motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. As we contemplate the peculiar confluence between Benny's birth name and the bungling bandits of Wyoming, our study not only enriches the scholarly discourse but also injects a touch of whimsy into the understanding of human behavior and nomenclature. The earnest pursuit of unraveling this curious correlation invites researchers to engage in a delightful discourse, pondering the enigmatic connection between bouncing baby names and brazen burglaries in the realm of Wyoming wonders.


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

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Benny and Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. 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]]
Benny's Birth Name and Bungling Bandits: A Belabored Burlesque on the Balance of Bouncing Baby Names and Brazen Burglaries in the Big Wyoming Wonderland

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the curious correlation between the prevalence of the given name "Benny" and the frequency of motor vehicle thefts in the state of Wyoming. Drawing from extensive data collected by the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, our research team sought to unravel the enigmatic connection between the popularity of this moniker and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves. With a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022, our findings suggest a tangible association between the two phenomena. While further investigation is warranted to discern the underlying factors at play, our study offers a whimsical window into the curious confluence of nomenclature and nefarious deeds.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The relationship between names and behavior has long intrigued scholars and laypersons alike, prompting speculation and inquiry into the curious confluence of nomenclature and human activities. In this study, we endeavor to shed light on an obscure yet captivating correlation between the popularity of the given name "Benny" and the incidence of motor vehicle thefts in the picturesque state of Wyoming. One might initially dismiss such a connection as mere happenstance or whimsical fancy, but our meticulous analysis of extensive data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services has revealed a statistically significant association that defies conventional expectations.
While pondering the implications of a name in relation to criminal conduct may seem like a frivolous pursuit, it is imperative to acknowledge the potential impact of nomenclature on behavioral predispositions. As Shakespeare famously mused, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." However, whether the name Benny carries an unwitting association with bungling bandits and brazen burglaries remains a tantalizing enigma that beckons further scrutiny.
Our investigation endeavors to unravel this unconventional correlation, which has raised eyebrows and elicited bemused skepticism within the academic community. The state of Wyoming, with its expansive landscapes and resilient populace, serves as the backdrop for this belabored burlesque of bouncing baby names and brazen thefts. To our surprise, the correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 have compelled us to confront this peculiar linkage with seriousness, albeit with a hint of bemusement. While we do not purport to posit causation, the association between the prevalence of the name "Benny" and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves beckons onlookers to ponder the curious marvels of human behavior and nomenclature.
As we embark on this whimsical odyssey into the world of nomenclature and criminology, we invite our esteemed colleagues to join us in this earnest exploration of a mysterious and often overlooked phenomenon. The findings of this study offer a lighthearted and captivating window into the curious confluence of baby names and illicit activity, fostering an ambience where rigorous research intertwines with subtle amusement. So, with a blend of scholarly seriousness and a dash of levity, let us delve into the delightful discourse on Benny's birth name and the bungling bandits of the big Wyoming wonderland.

[[RESULTS]]
The data analysis conducted in this study revealed a noteworthy correlation between the popularity of the first name "Benny" and the incidence of motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. Our findings yielded a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426, indicating a moderately strong positive relationship between the prevalence of the given name "Benny" and the frequency of motor vehicle thefts. The r-squared value of 0.4289499 signifies that approximately 42.9% of the variance in motor vehicle thefts can be explained by the prevalence of the name "Benny," a striking result given the seemingly fortuitous nature of this association. The statistical significance of the correlation, with a p-value of less than 0.01, further lends credence to the validity of this unexpected connection.
Figure 1 (not shown here) depicts a scatterplot illustrating the robust correlation between the prevalence of the name "Benny" and the occurrence of motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming, underscoring the tangible nature of this eccentric association. While the intricate nuances of human behavior and nomenclature continue to confound and beguile researchers, our study adds a layer of intrigue to the whimsical interplay between baby names and criminal activities.
Our results provoke reflection on the curious marvels of human behavior and nomenclature, and while we maintain a stance of scholarly rigor, we cannot help but be amused by the enigmatic confluence of bouncing baby names and brazen burglaries in the big Wyoming wonderland.
As we proceed to further scrutinize the underlying mechanisms of this connection, our findings encourage academic discourse that blends scholarly solemnity with a dash of levity, inviting researchers to engage in a delightful discourse on the bemusing correlation between Benny's birth name and the bungling bandits of Wyoming.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our study has illuminated a remarkable correlation between the frequency of the first name "Benny" and the incidence of motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming. The statistically significant correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 lends credence to the tangible nature of this unexpected association, prompting both amusement and intrigue within the research community. While our findings have provided a whimsical insight into the confluence of nomenclature and illicit activity, it is essential to approach this correlation with scholarly sobriety despite the playfulness inherently embedded in our research. As much as we are tantalized by the notion of Benny's potentially unwitting association with bungling bandits, we must also acknowledge the complex interplay of various societal and psychological factors that may underpin this curious correlation.

While the empirical evidence we have presented warrants consideration and further investigation, it is worth noting the potential limitations of our study. The idiosyncrasies of human behavior and the intricacies of naming conventions undoubtedly introduce a delightful complexity that may elude our current understanding. Nevertheless, our research has opened a playful Pandora's box of possibilities, inviting scholars to contemplate the curious interweaving of nomenclature and criminology with a sense of scholarly whimsy.

In light of our findings, we propose that no further research is needed in this particular area. The results of our study serve as a lighthearted testament to the delightful unpredictability of human nature and the intriguing interplay of names and deeds, culminating in a conclusion that is as unexpected as the correlation we have explored. Therefore, we suggest embracing the playful enigma of Benny's birth name and the bungling bandits of Wyoming without succumbing to the temptation of exhaustive analysis. After all, sometimes a touch of whimsy is exactly what academia needs to keep the scholarly spirit buoyant.


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 Benny's Birth Name and Bungling Bandits: A Belabored Burlesque on the Balance of Bouncing Baby Names and Brazen Burglaries in the Big Wyoming Wonderland. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Ludicrous Linguistics


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 Benny's Birth Name and Bungling Bandits: A Belabored Burlesque on the Balance of Bouncing Baby Names and Brazen Burglaries in the Big Wyoming Wonderland. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Institute for Whimsical Research and Eccentric 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 Benny's Birth Name and Bungling Bandits: A Belabored Burlesque on the Balance of Bouncing Baby Names and Brazen Burglaries in the Big Wyoming Wonderland with an abstract of This study delves into the curious correlation between the prevalence of the given name "Benny" and the frequency of motor vehicle thefts in the state of Wyoming. Drawing from extensive data collected by the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, our research team sought to unravel the enigmatic connection between the popularity of this moniker and the audacious escapades of vehicle thieves. With a correlation coefficient of 0.6549426 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022, our findings suggest a tangible association between the two phenomena. While further investigation is warranted to discern the underlying factors at play, our study offers a whimsical window into the curious confluence of nomenclature and nefarious deeds.

ChatGPT:

Benny, birth name, bandits, baby names, burglaries, Wyoming, motor vehicle theft, correlation, US Social Security Administration, FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, correlation coefficient, statistical significance, nomenclature, nefarious deeds, whimsical window

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



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Data details

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

Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming
Detailed data title: The motor vehicle theft rate per 100,000 residents in Wyoming
Source: FBI Criminal Justice Information Services
See what else correlates with Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming

Correlation r = 0.6549426 (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 = 0.4289499 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 42.9% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Popularity of the first name Benny) over the 38 years from 1985 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 8.1E-6. 0.0000081392309066184020000000
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 0.65 in 0.00081% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 122,862 random variables You don't actually need 122 thousand 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 37 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 37 because we have two variables measured over a period of 38 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.

[ 0.42, 0.81 ] 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.
19851986198719881989199019911992199319941995199619971998199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022
Popularity of the first name Benny (Babies born)213212211192219203201204207156182179166172158192165193161180167193193155149153149134142145123121131147161175222220
Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming (Motor Vehicle Theft rate)173.5168.6138.6142.5137.3149154.6150.4154.9162167.7139.1134.8139.1124.3116141148.9158.9157.9145.2156.1155.5137.6139.1104.991.8101.399.1103.2100.9136.8131.4135.6124.5165.5223.8162.4




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 โ€œdata dredging.โ€ Instead of starting with a hypothesis and testing it, I instead abused the data to see what correlations shake out. Itโ€™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([213,212,211,192,219,203,201,204,207,156,182,179,166,172,158,192,165,193,161,180,167,193,193,155,149,153,149,134,142,145,123,121,131,147,161,175,222,220,])
array_2 = np.array([173.5,168.6,138.6,142.5,137.3,149,154.6,150.4,154.9,162,167.7,139.1,134.8,139.1,124.3,116,141,148.9,158.9,157.9,145.2,156.1,155.5,137.6,139.1,104.9,91.8,101.3,99.1,103.2,100.9,136.8,131.4,135.6,124.5,165.5,223.8,162.4,])
array_1_name = "Popularity of the first name Benny"
array_2_name = "Motor vehicle thefts in Wyoming"

# 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: 3459 · Black Variable ID: 3798 · Red Variable ID: 20174
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