Spurious correlation #2,030 · 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 Sonny and the second variable is Wind power generated in Norway. The chart goes from 1992 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

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 Sonny and the second variable is Wind power generated in Norway. The chart goes from 1992 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

Download png, svg

AI explanation

The more people named Sonny, the sunnier the disposition, leading to an increase in wind power generated in Norway. As their sunny attitudes spread, so did the gusts of wind, powering up those Norwegian wind turbines! A real case of Sonny side up, brightening the renewable energy scene in Norway.

^{Show image generation prompt} Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate an image of a TIME magazine cover styled image that depicts a bustling town square in Norway. In the center, a bright yellow wind turbine stands tall, spinning gracefully in the wind. Surrounding the turbine, a group of happy children play and call out excitedly to their friend Sonny, who is surrounded by a large group of classmates, all cheering and laughing together. The wind turbine quietly generates clean, sustainable energy for the community while Sonny's popularity shines amidst the joyful chatter of friends. The image should capture the vibrant atmosphere of the town square and the positive energy of the scene. 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 Sonny and Wind power generated in Norway. 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: Charcoal Macabre A TIME magazine cover image inspired by bauhaus A comic-book-style illustration with muted colors and a dotted halftone pattern from the 1960s
ChatGPT: A TIME magazine cover image

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 Sonny and Wind power generated in Norway together. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a bustling town square in Norway, a bright yellow wind turbine stands tall, spinning gracefully in the wind. Nearby, a group of happy children play and call out excitedly to their friend Sonny, who is surrounded by a large group of classmates, all cheering and laughing together. The wind turbine continues to spin, quietly generating clean, sustainable energy for the community, while Sonny's popularity shines amidst the joyful chatter of friends.

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 TIME magazine cover image ] and depicting this scene: In a bustling town square in Norway, a bright yellow wind turbine stands tall, spinning gracefully in the wind. Nearby, a group of happy children play and call out excitedly to their friend Sonny, who is surrounded by a large group of classmates, all cheering and laughing together. The wind turbine continues to spin, quietly generating clean, sustainable energy for the community, while Sonny's popularity shines amidst the joyful chatter of friends. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate an image of a TIME magazine cover styled image that depicts a bustling town square in Norway. In the center, a bright yellow wind turbine stands tall, spinning gracefully in the wind. Surrounding the turbine, a group of happy children play and call out excitedly to their friend Sonny, who is surrounded by a large group of classmates, all cheering and laughing together. The wind turbine quietly generates clean, sustainable energy for the community while Sonny's popularity shines amidst the joyful chatter of friends. The image should capture the vibrant atmosphere of the town square and the positive energy of the scene.

*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.
^{Show prompt for explanation} Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how an increase in Popularity of the first name Sonny caused Wind power generated in Norway to increase.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)

The Sonny and Wind Study: Searching for a Silly Synergy

The Journal of Whimsical Psychology

Jan 2024

Reminder: This paper is AI-generated. Not real!

^{Show prompt used to generate this paper} 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 dry but witty academic researcher. You speak in the passive voice, and your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal.You draft a literature review section of an academic research paper, that starts out dry for the first few sentences but then becomes hilarious and goofy.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Sonny and Wind power generated in Norway. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

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

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Then name some cartoons and childrens' shows that you watched that are related to the topic.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The Sonny and Wind Study: Searching for a Silly Synergy

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the relationship between the popularity of the first name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway using data from the US Social Security Administration and the Energy Information Administration. Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9788074 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1992 to 2021. The findings suggest a perplexing and potentially whimsical association between the two variables, triggering amusing yet puzzling speculations about the potential quirky influence of the name Sonny on wind power generation in Norway.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The enigmatic allure of human names has long captivated scholars and laypeople alike. From the regal charm of "Alexander" to the charming simplicity of "Jane," names carry with them an inexplicable fascination that transcends mere nomenclature. In the realm of renewable energy, the name "Sonny" has garnered particular attention for its purported connection to wind power generation in Norway. This investigation delves into the depths of statistical analysis to unravel the curious correlation between the popularity of the moniker "Sonny" and the windy electricity production in Norway.
The whimsical nature of this study is evident from the outset, as one is immediately drawn to the amusing contrast between the lightheartedness of a name like "Sonny" and the earnest pursuit of sustainable energy production. Nevertheless, in the spirit of scholarly inquiry, we trod forth into the realms of data analysis and hypothesis testing with a twinkle in our eyes and a nod to the serendipitous nature of academic exploration.
As we embark on this unconventional quest, we are reminded of the paradoxical blend of rigidity and capriciousness that pervades scientific investigation, where the pursuit of knowledge often veers unexpectedly into the realms of irony and intrigue. The scrutiny of correlations and causal pathways is no exception, and the examination of Sonny's purported influence on wind power generation in Norway promises to tickle the intellect even as it furrows the brow in speculative contemplation.
While the gravity of our pursuit is by no means diminished, we cannot help but smile at the idiosyncrasies of this peculiar investigation. The very idea that a name could hold sway over the blustery currents that drive the turbines in Norwegian wind farms would prompt a chuckle from the most stoic of scholars. As we proceed, let us approach this undertaking with the measured solemnity befitting academic inquiry, tempered by an appreciation for the delightful curiosities that lie in wait amidst the data and analyses.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

In "Smith et al.," the authors find a striking correlation between the popularity of the first name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the Energy Information Administration, the investigation into this seemingly whimsical association has yielded a correlation coefficient of 0.9788074 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1992 to 2021. The unexpected strength of this correlation has sparked contemplation about the potential comical influence of the name Sonny on wind power generation in Norway.

Building on this analysis, "Doe and Jones" delve into the historical context of name popularity and renewable energy trends, revealing an astounding consistency in the pattern of Sonny's popularity and wind power output in Norway. Through rigorous statistical modeling and time series analysis, the authors unearth a curious synchronicity between the ebb and flow of the name Sonny and the gusts that animate Norwegian wind turbines.

Expanding the purview to explore the cultural and societal implications of this peculiar correlation, "Distinguished Author" posits that the prevalence of the name Sonny may serve as a metaphysical conduit for the energetic effervescence of wind power in Norway. Indeed, the interplay of nomenclature and natural forces seems to underpin a theatrical dance of linguistics and physics that defies conventional scientific explanation.

Turning to non-fiction works that could shed light on the whimsical nexus between names and renewable energy, "The Power of Names" by J.K. Rowling and "Blowin' in the Wind: A Biography of Sonny Bono" by Author X offer intriguing perspectives on the potential interplay of linguistic symbolism and wind energy dynamics. Fictional narratives such as "Gone with the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell and "Sunny Side Up" by Author Y beckon the reader into the realm of literary whimsy while tantalizingly alluding to the paradoxical potential of Sonny's impact on Norwegian wind power.

Reassured by the scholarly gravitas of the aforementioned studies, the literature review casts a lighthearted glance at the cartoons and children's shows that, perhaps unwittingly, impart insights into the enigmatic rapport between the name Sonny and wind power generation. "The Magic School Bus" and "Dora the Explorer" slyly tease at the mystical exchange between namesakes and renewable energy phenomena, furtively beckoning the academic community to playfully ponder the improbable yet captivating interconnection at hand.

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

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Sonny and Wind power generated in Norway. Make lots of 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 Energy Information Administration . You used data from 1992 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]]
The Sonny and Wind Study: Searching for a Silly Synergy

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the relationship between the popularity of the first name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway using data from the US Social Security Administration and the Energy Information Administration. Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9788074 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1992 to 2021. The findings suggest a perplexing and potentially whimsical association between the two variables, triggering amusing yet puzzling speculations about the potential quirky influence of the name Sonny on wind power generation in Norway.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The enigmatic allure of human names has long captivated scholars and laypeople alike. From the regal charm of "Alexander" to the charming simplicity of "Jane," names carry with them an inexplicable fascination that transcends mere nomenclature. In the realm of renewable energy, the name "Sonny" has garnered particular attention for its purported connection to wind power generation in Norway. This investigation delves into the depths of statistical analysis to unravel the curious correlation between the popularity of the moniker "Sonny" and the windy electricity production in Norway.
The whimsical nature of this study is evident from the outset, as one is immediately drawn to the amusing contrast between the lightheartedness of a name like "Sonny" and the earnest pursuit of sustainable energy production. Nevertheless, in the spirit of scholarly inquiry, we trod forth into the realms of data analysis and hypothesis testing with a twinkle in our eyes and a nod to the serendipitous nature of academic exploration.
As we embark on this unconventional quest, we are reminded of the paradoxical blend of rigidity and capriciousness that pervades scientific investigation, where the pursuit of knowledge often veers unexpectedly into the realms of irony and intrigue. The scrutiny of correlations and causal pathways is no exception, and the examination of Sonny's purported influence on wind power generation in Norway promises to tickle the intellect even as it furrows the brow in speculative contemplation.
While the gravity of our pursuit is by no means diminished, we cannot help but smile at the idiosyncrasies of this peculiar investigation. The very idea that a name could hold sway over the blustery currents that drive the turbines in Norwegian wind farms would prompt a chuckle from the most stoic of scholars. As we proceed, let us approach this undertaking with the measured solemnity befitting academic inquiry, tempered by an appreciation for the delightful curiosities that lie in wait amidst the data and analyses.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

Data Collection:
The first step in this mirthful exploration involved collecting data on the prevalence of the first name "Sonny" from the US Social Security Administration's database. The data covered the period from 1992 to 2021, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the name's popularity over nearly three decades. The use of this dataset endeavored to capture the whimsical fluctuations and trends in the adoption of this jovial appellation.

Furthermore, the wind power generation data for Norway was sourced from the Energy Information Administration, reflecting the spirited efforts in renewable energy production from 1992 to 2021. This decision was made to ensure an exhaustive examination of the amusing association between the effervescent name "Sonny" and the gusty antics of Norwegian wind power generation.

Correlational Analysis:
To explore the bonkers relationship between the first name "Sonny" and wind power generation in Norway, a series of barmy statistical analyses were conducted. A correlation coefficient was calculated to elucidate the degree of association between these seemingly improbable variables. Through this method, the raucous connection between the whimsical moniker and the blustery generation of wind power was quantitatively assessed.

Hypothesis Testing:
In a twist of fate, a hypothesis test was deployed to determine the probability of obtaining the observed correlation coefficient if there were, in fact, no fluky association between the name "Sonny" and wind power generation in Norway. The jocular p-value, when compared to a preposterous level of significance, offered insights into the likelihood of the detected correlation occurring purely by chance.

Control Variables:
In an attempt to contain the potential giggles induced by the initial findings, several control variables were considered. The robustness of the correlation was examined in the presence of alternative explanations and confounding variables to determine if the parodic relationship between the name "Sonny" and wind power generation in Norway held up under amusing scrutiny.

Ethical Considerations (or Lack Thereof):
It is worth noting that the investigation into this prodigiously curious connection between the popularity of the name "Sonny" and wind power generation in Norway posed no foreseeable ethical conundrums. This jovial study sought only to unearth the capricious charm of statistical inquiry, without treading on the toes of more somber research endeavors.

In conclusion, this section highlighted the uproarious endeavors undertaken to explore the whimsical association between the popularity of the first name "Sonny" and the wind power generated in Norway, with the use of data from the US Social Security Administration and the Energy Information Administration. These methodical yet comical approaches were implemented to unravel the enigmatic correlation that has left researchers both bemused and a little winded.

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

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Sonny and Wind power generated in Norway. Make lots of 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 Energy Information Administration .

For the time period 1992 to 2021, you found a correlation 0.9788074, r-squared of 0.9580640, and p < 0.01.

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

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The Sonny and Wind Study: Searching for a Silly Synergy

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the relationship between the popularity of the first name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway using data from the US Social Security Administration and the Energy Information Administration. Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9788074 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1992 to 2021. The findings suggest a perplexing and potentially whimsical association between the two variables, triggering amusing yet puzzling speculations about the potential quirky influence of the name Sonny on wind power generation in Norway.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The enigmatic allure of human names has long captivated scholars and laypeople alike. From the regal charm of "Alexander" to the charming simplicity of "Jane," names carry with them an inexplicable fascination that transcends mere nomenclature. In the realm of renewable energy, the name "Sonny" has garnered particular attention for its purported connection to wind power generation in Norway. This investigation delves into the depths of statistical analysis to unravel the curious correlation between the popularity of the moniker "Sonny" and the windy electricity production in Norway.
The whimsical nature of this study is evident from the outset, as one is immediately drawn to the amusing contrast between the lightheartedness of a name like "Sonny" and the earnest pursuit of sustainable energy production. Nevertheless, in the spirit of scholarly inquiry, we trod forth into the realms of data analysis and hypothesis testing with a twinkle in our eyes and a nod to the serendipitous nature of academic exploration.
As we embark on this unconventional quest, we are reminded of the paradoxical blend of rigidity and capriciousness that pervades scientific investigation, where the pursuit of knowledge often veers unexpectedly into the realms of irony and intrigue. The scrutiny of correlations and causal pathways is no exception, and the examination of Sonny's purported influence on wind power generation in Norway promises to tickle the intellect even as it furrows the brow in speculative contemplation.
While the gravity of our pursuit is by no means diminished, we cannot help but smile at the idiosyncrasies of this peculiar investigation. The very idea that a name could hold sway over the blustery currents that drive the turbines in Norwegian wind farms would prompt a chuckle from the most stoic of scholars. As we proceed, let us approach this undertaking with the measured solemnity befitting academic inquiry, tempered by an appreciation for the delightful curiosities that lie in wait amidst the data and analyses.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]

ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The analysis of the relationship between the popularity of the first name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway yielded a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9788074, indicative of a strong positive association. The coefficient of determination (r-squared) further underscored the robustness of this link, standing at 0.9580640. The probability value (p) was found to be less than 0.01, signifying a statistically significant relationship between the two variables.

The findings not only surprised us but also invoked a sense of whimsy in our otherwise somber data analysis. The scatterplot (Fig. 1) vividly captures the strong linear relationship between the popularity of the name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway, providing a visually stunning depiction of this unforeseen correlation. One cannot help but marvel at the delightful juxtaposition of the seemingly unrelated variables, prompting contemplation on the capricious nature of statistical associations.

Our research unlocks a curious conundrum that sparks wonder and amusement within the scientific community. The enigmatic influence of the name Sonny on the winds of Norwegian energy production beckons further exploration into the veiled mechanisms that underlie this fanciful connection. The anomaly uncovered in our analysis not only challenges conventional understanding but also invites lighthearted musings on the peculiar interplay between human nomenclature and renewable energy dynamics.

In light of these unexpected results, it is our scholarly duty to embrace the serendipitous nature of this discovery while maintaining the rigor and precision inherent to scientific investigation. The strong correlation between the popularity of the name Sonny and wind power generated in Norway presents an irresistible enigma that warrants continued scholarly attention and piques the imagination with its whimsical implications.

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

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Sonny and Wind power generated in Norway. Make lots of 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]]
The Sonny and Wind Study: Searching for a Silly Synergy

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the relationship between the popularity of the first name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway using data from the US Social Security Administration and the Energy Information Administration. Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9788074 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1992 to 2021. The findings suggest a perplexing and potentially whimsical association between the two variables, triggering amusing yet puzzling speculations about the potential quirky influence of the name Sonny on wind power generation in Norway.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
In "Smith et al.," the authors find a striking correlation between the popularity of the first name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the Energy Information Administration, the investigation into this seemingly whimsical association has yielded a correlation coefficient of 0.9788074 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1992 to 2021. The unexpected strength of this correlation has sparked contemplation about the potential comical influence of the name Sonny on wind power generation in Norway.
Building on this analysis, "Doe and Jones" delve into the historical context of name popularity and renewable energy trends, revealing an astounding consistency in the pattern of Sonny's popularity and wind power output in Norway. Through rigorous statistical modeling and time series analysis, the authors unearth a curious synchronicity between the ebb and flow of the name Sonny and the gusts that animate Norwegian wind turbines.
Expanding the purview to explore the cultural and societal implications of this peculiar correlation, "Distinguished Author" posits that the prevalence of the name Sonny may serve as a metaphysical conduit for the energetic effervescence of wind power in Norway. Indeed, the interplay of nomenclature and natural forces seems to underpin a theatrical dance of linguistics and physics that defies conventional scientific explanation.
Turning to non-fiction works that could shed light on the whimsical nexus between names and renewable energy, "The Power of Names" by J.K. Rowling and "Blowin' in the Wind: A Biography of Sonny Bono" by Author X offer intriguing perspectives on the potential interplay of linguistic symbolism and wind energy dynamics. Fictional narratives such as "Gone with the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell and "Sunny Side Up" by Author Y beckon the reader into the realm of literary whimsy while tantalizingly alluding to the paradoxical potential of Sonny's impact on Norwegian wind power.
Reassured by the scholarly gravitas of the aforementioned studies, the literature review casts a lighthearted glance at the cartoons and children's shows that, perhaps unwittingly, impart insights into the enigmatic rapport between the name Sonny and wind power generation. "The Magic School Bus" and "Dora the Explorer" slyly tease at the mystical exchange between namesakes and renewable energy phenomena, furtively beckoning the academic community to playfully ponder the improbable yet captivating interconnection at hand.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of the relationship between the popularity of the first name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway yielded a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9788074, indicative of a strong positive association. The coefficient of determination (r-squared) further underscored the robustness of this link, standing at 0.9580640. The probability value (p) was found to be less than 0.01, signifying a statistically significant relationship between the two variables.
The findings not only surprised us but also invoked a sense of whimsy in our otherwise somber data analysis. The scatterplot (Fig. 1) vividly captures the strong linear relationship between the popularity of the name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway, providing a visually stunning depiction of this unforeseen correlation. One cannot help but marvel at the delightful juxtaposition of the seemingly unrelated variables, prompting contemplation on the capricious nature of statistical associations.
Our research unlocks a curious conundrum that sparks wonder and amusement within the scientific community. The enigmatic influence of the name Sonny on the winds of Norwegian energy production beckons further exploration into the veiled mechanisms that underlie this fanciful connection. The anomaly uncovered in our analysis not only challenges conventional understanding but also invites lighthearted musings on the peculiar interplay between human nomenclature and renewable energy dynamics.
In light of these unexpected results, it is our scholarly duty to embrace the serendipitous nature of this discovery while maintaining the rigor and precision inherent to scientific investigation. The strong correlation between the popularity of the name Sonny and wind power generated in Norway presents an irresistible enigma that warrants continued scholarly attention and piques the imagination with its whimsical implications.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The results of our study provide compelling evidence to support the previous findings that have unearthed the remarkable association between the popularity of the first name Sonny and wind power generated in Norway. The strong correlation coefficient, coupled with significant p-value, consolidates the peculiar nexus between these variables, resembling a lighthearted dance of data points that has captivated the academic community.

The surprising harmony between the name Sonny and Norwegian wind power output challenges traditional scientific paradigms while eliciting a whimsical curiosity among researchers. Delving into the realm of statistical serendipity, our investigation not only affirms the initial findings but also infuses the scholarly discourse with a sense of playful wonderment at the prospect of an improbable yet compelling relationship.

Building upon the light-hearted musings in the literature review, our results elevate the perceived whimsy of the Sonny-wind power connection to a tangible manifestation, encapsulating the droll synergy within the dry language of statistical significance. The robustness of the correlation coefficient and coefficient of determination serves as a testament to the intriguing unpredictability inherent in this seemingly capricious association.

The scatterplot depicting the linear relationship between Sonny's popularity and Norwegian wind power generation stands as a visual testament to the unexpected cohesion between human nomenclature and renewable energy dynamics. While the scholarly community may be tempted to adopt a staid demeanor in interpreting these findings, it is hard to suppress the grin elicited by the confluence of Sonny and wind power in the annals of scientific inquiry.

In conclusion, our study upholds and amplifies the enchanting link between the first name Sonny and wind power generated in Norway, reminding us that even in the most resolute realms of scientific inquiry, an undercurrent of whimsy may unexpectedly reveal itself. Thus, the Sonny and wind study imparts a jovial yet thought-provoking element to the intricate tapestry of research endeavors, reminding us to approach even the most unexpected correlations with a lighthearted curiosity that befits the whimsical nature of human exploration.

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

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Sonny and Wind power generated in Norway. Make lots of 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]]
The Sonny and Wind Study: Searching for a Silly Synergy

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the relationship between the popularity of the first name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway using data from the US Social Security Administration and the Energy Information Administration. Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9788074 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1992 to 2021. The findings suggest a perplexing and potentially whimsical association between the two variables, triggering amusing yet puzzling speculations about the potential quirky influence of the name Sonny on wind power generation in Norway.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The enigmatic allure of human names has long captivated scholars and laypeople alike. From the regal charm of "Alexander" to the charming simplicity of "Jane," names carry with them an inexplicable fascination that transcends mere nomenclature. In the realm of renewable energy, the name "Sonny" has garnered particular attention for its purported connection to wind power generation in Norway. This investigation delves into the depths of statistical analysis to unravel the curious correlation between the popularity of the moniker "Sonny" and the windy electricity production in Norway.
The whimsical nature of this study is evident from the outset, as one is immediately drawn to the amusing contrast between the lightheartedness of a name like "Sonny" and the earnest pursuit of sustainable energy production. Nevertheless, in the spirit of scholarly inquiry, we trod forth into the realms of data analysis and hypothesis testing with a twinkle in our eyes and a nod to the serendipitous nature of academic exploration.
As we embark on this unconventional quest, we are reminded of the paradoxical blend of rigidity and capriciousness that pervades scientific investigation, where the pursuit of knowledge often veers unexpectedly into the realms of irony and intrigue. The scrutiny of correlations and causal pathways is no exception, and the examination of Sonny's purported influence on wind power generation in Norway promises to tickle the intellect even as it furrows the brow in speculative contemplation.
While the gravity of our pursuit is by no means diminished, we cannot help but smile at the idiosyncrasies of this peculiar investigation. The very idea that a name could hold sway over the blustery currents that drive the turbines in Norwegian wind farms would prompt a chuckle from the most stoic of scholars. As we proceed, let us approach this undertaking with the measured solemnity befitting academic inquiry, tempered by an appreciation for the delightful curiosities that lie in wait amidst the data and analyses.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of the relationship between the popularity of the first name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway yielded a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9788074, indicative of a strong positive association. The coefficient of determination (r-squared) further underscored the robustness of this link, standing at 0.9580640. The probability value (p) was found to be less than 0.01, signifying a statistically significant relationship between the two variables.
The findings not only surprised us but also invoked a sense of whimsy in our otherwise somber data analysis. The scatterplot (Fig. 1) vividly captures the strong linear relationship between the popularity of the name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway, providing a visually stunning depiction of this unforeseen correlation. One cannot help but marvel at the delightful juxtaposition of the seemingly unrelated variables, prompting contemplation on the capricious nature of statistical associations.
Our research unlocks a curious conundrum that sparks wonder and amusement within the scientific community. The enigmatic influence of the name Sonny on the winds of Norwegian energy production beckons further exploration into the veiled mechanisms that underlie this fanciful connection. The anomaly uncovered in our analysis not only challenges conventional understanding but also invites lighthearted musings on the peculiar interplay between human nomenclature and renewable energy dynamics.
In light of these unexpected results, it is our scholarly duty to embrace the serendipitous nature of this discovery while maintaining the rigor and precision inherent to scientific investigation. The strong correlation between the popularity of the name Sonny and wind power generated in Norway presents an irresistible enigma that warrants continued scholarly attention and piques the imagination with its whimsical implications.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our investigation into the perplexing correlation between the popularity of the first name Sonny and wind power generated in Norway has unearthed a charmingly confounding connection. The remarkably high correlation coefficient and statistically significant relationship have left us both bewildered and amused, prompting contemplation on the inscrutable influence of nomenclature on renewable energy dynamics.

The unexpected synergy between the name Sonny and the blustery currents that propel Norwegian wind turbines has not only broadened our understanding but also infused a touch of whimsy into the realm of scholarly inquiry. As we reflect on the delightful juxtaposition of these seemingly disparate elements, one cannot help but marvel at the capricious nature of statistical associations and the lighthearted musings they inspire.

The implications of our findings extend beyond the realm of data analysis, beckoning further exploration into the idiosyncratic interplay between human names and sustainable energy production. Perhaps there is a gust of truth in the notion that the name Sonny holds sway over the winds of Norwegian energy generation, inviting continued scholarly attention and inviting lighthearted musings on the whimsical implications of our discovery.

With that said, the scholarly community should approach this seemingly fanciful correlation with the measured solemnity befitting academic inquiry, all while embracing the enchanting mysteries that lie within our unanticipated findings. As such, it is our firm assertion that no further research is needed in this area, as the whimsical influence of the name Sonny on wind power generation in Norway has been sufficiently and delightfully explored.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of academic journals. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding research, scientific, or academic journal that would publish a paper entited The Sonny and Wind Study: Searching for a Silly Synergy. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Whimsical Psychology

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of nonprofit research organizations and associations. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding nonprofit, academic, or scientific association or organization that would sponsor research that resulted in a paper entited The Sonny and Wind Study: Searching for a Silly Synergy. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Center for Amusing and Absurd Research 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 The Sonny and Wind Study: Searching for a Silly Synergy with an abstract of This study examines the relationship between the popularity of the first name Sonny and the wind power generated in Norway using data from the US Social Security Administration and the Energy Information Administration. Surprisingly, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9788074 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1992 to 2021. The findings suggest a perplexing and potentially whimsical association between the two variables, triggering amusing yet puzzling speculations about the potential quirky influence of the name Sonny on wind power generation in Norway.

ChatGPT:

Sonny, Wind power, Norway, US Social Security Administration, Energy Information Administration, Relationship, Popularity, Correlation coefficient, Data analysis, Name influence, Whimsical association, Puzzling speculation, Quirky influence, 1992-2021.

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

Wind power generated in Norway
Detailed data title: Total wind power generated in Norway in billion kWh
Source: Energy Information Administration
See what else correlates with Wind power generated in Norway

Correlation r = 0.9788074 (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 = 0.9580640 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 95.8% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Wind power generated in Norway) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Popularity of the first name Sonny) over the 30 years from 1992 through 2021.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 7.9E-21.^Show 0.0000000000000000000079319209
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme.^Note 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 0.98 in 7.9E-19% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 126,072,865,905,659,756,544 random variables^Note You don't actually need 126 quintillion 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 29 degrees of freedom, ^Note Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 29 because we have two variables measured over a period of 30 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.

[ 0.96, 0.99 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
^{Read more about the confidence interval} 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: ^Note 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.

	1992	1993	1994	1995	1996	1997	1998	1999	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021
Popularity of the first name Sonny (Babies born)	199	205	167	193	164	173	181	177	194	205	220	240	222	250	236	249	258	260	230	254	241	265	259	301	286	332	415	454	572	641
Wind power generated in Norway (Billion kWh)	0.00285	0.007	0.009	0.01	0.009	0.011	0.011	0.025	0.031	0.027	0.075	0.218	0.252	0.499	0.636	0.892	0.913	0.977	0.878998	1.283	1.548	1.881	2.215	2.513	2.116	2.852	3.87588	5.514	9.90529	11.7607

Why this works

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.
Lack of causal connection: There is probably^Note 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.
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^Note 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.
Confounding variable: 2020 is particularly different from the other years on this graph. Confounding variables (like global pandemics) will cause two variables to look connected when in fact a "sneaky third" variable is influencing both of them behind the scenes.

Try it yourself

You can calculate the values on this page on your own! Try running the Python code to see the calculation results. ^{Show the steps to do this.} 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([199,205,167,193,164,173,181,177,194,205,220,240,222,250,236,249,258,260,230,254,241,265,259,301,286,332,415,454,572,641,])
array_2 = np.array([0.00285,0.007,0.009,0.01,0.009,0.011,0.011,0.025,0.031,0.027,0.075,0.218,0.252,0.499,0.636,0.892,0.913,0.977,0.878998,1.283,1.548,1.881,2.215,2.513,2.116,2.852,3.87588,5.514,9.90529,11.7607,])
array_1_name = "Popularity of the first name Sonny"
array_2_name = "Wind power generated in Norway"

# 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)

Reuseable content

You may re-use the images on this page for any purpose, even commercial purposes, without asking for permission. The only requirement is that you attribute Tyler Vigen. ^Note Attribution can take many different forms. If you leave the "tylervigen.com" link in the image, that satisfies it just fine. If you remove it and move it to a footnote, that's fine too. You can also just write "Charts courtesy of Tyler Vigen" at the bottom of an article.

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.

Full license details.
For more on re-use permissions, or to get a signed release form, see tylervigen.com/permission.

Download images for these variables:

High resolution line chart ^Note The image linked here is a Scalable Vector Graphic (SVG). It is the highest resolution that is possible to achieve. It scales up beyond the size of the observable universe without pixelating. You do not need to email me asking if I have a higher resolution image. I do not. The physical limitations of our universe prevent me from providing you with an image that is any higher resolution than this one.

If you insert it into a PowerPoint presentation (a tool well-known for managing things that are the scale of the universe), you can right-click > "Ungroup" or "Create Shape" and then edit the lines and text directly. You can also change the colors this way.

Alternatively you can use a tool like Inkscape.
High resolution line chart, optimized for mobile
Alternative high resolution line chart
Scatterplot
Portable line chart (png)
Portable line chart (png), optimized for mobile
Line chart for only Popularity of the first name Sonny
Line chart for only Wind power generated in Norway
AI-generated correlation image
The spurious research paper: The Sonny and Wind Study: Searching for a Silly Synergy

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Correlation ID: 2030 · Black Variable ID: 3904 · Red Variable ID: 23878


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