Spurious correlation #2,375 · View random
A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is The number of embalmers in Missouri and the second variable is Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan. The chart goes from 2003 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 The number of embalmers in Missouri and the second variable is Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan. The chart goes from 2003 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

AI explanation

As the saying goes, when it comes to embalming in Missouri, demand is just dying out! So, as the number of embalmers in the Show-Me State decreases, there's less need for embalming fluid overall. And as luck would have it, one of the main ingredients in embalming fluid is methanol. Now, methanol is not only key for preserving dearly departed Missourians, but it's also used in the production of a special type of fuel. This fuel happens to be a favorite for jets in Uzbekistan! So, with fewer embalmers, there's a methanol merriment leading to a jet fuel shortage in Uzbekistan. Looks like the departed in Missouri are taking the phrase "ashes to ashes, dust to dust" to a whole new level by affecting the fuel for jets halfway across the globe! It's quite a grave situation, but hey, at least it's an ashes-to-ashes, jets-to-jets kind of connection!

^{Show image generation prompt} Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate an image of a small, quaint Missouri town with old-fashioned funeral homes and cemeteries dotting the landscape. Show a somber scene where embalmers are seen standing outside of their buildings, looking forlorn as the demand for their services wanes. Meanwhile, depict a scene in distant Uzbekistan where aircraft and jet fuel are noticeably absent, indicating a diminished need for air travel. Create a visual contrast between the two locations, showcasing the unexpected link between the decrease in embalming demand and the dwindling use of jet fuel. Capture the shared sense of confusion and concern among both professions as they grapple with this unexpected connection. Capture the grave atmosphere where both professions mourn the decline in demand, evoking a sense of puzzlement and introspection. 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: The number of embalmers in Missouri and Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan. 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: Brutalism Realistic An image that looks like it is a scene from A Disney Movie Macabre Scalar art
ChatGPT: Realistic

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 The number of embalmers in Missouri and Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan, in the following situation: As the number of embalmers in Missouri decreases, there are fewer people "dyin'" to use jet fuel. Without as many bodies needing to be preserved, there's a "deceased" demand for embalming services, leading to a "coffin" decline in the need for jet fuel in Uzbekistan. This unexpected correlation has left the industry in a state of "mourning" as they try to "unearth" the root cause of this connection. It's truly a "grave" situation for both professions.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a quiet Missouri town, the number of embalmers decreases. With fewer bodies to preserve, the demand for embalming services drops. Meanwhile, in a distant Uzbekistan, the amount of jet fuel used dwindles as well. The industry is left puzzled, trying to uncover the cause of this unexpected link between the two variables. Both professions find themselves in a grave situation, mourning the decline in demand.

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: [ Realistic ] and depicting this scene: In a quiet Missouri town, the number of embalmers decreases. With fewer bodies to preserve, the demand for embalming services drops. Meanwhile, in a distant Uzbekistan, the amount of jet fuel used dwindles as well. The industry is left puzzled, trying to uncover the cause of this unexpected link between the two variables. Both professions find themselves in a grave situation, mourning the decline in demand. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate an image of a small, quaint Missouri town with old-fashioned funeral homes and cemeteries dotting the landscape. Show a somber scene where embalmers are seen standing outside of their buildings, looking forlorn as the demand for their services wanes. Meanwhile, depict a scene in distant Uzbekistan where aircraft and jet fuel are noticeably absent, indicating a diminished need for air travel. Create a visual contrast between the two locations, showcasing the unexpected link between the decrease in embalming demand and the dwindling use of jet fuel. Capture the shared sense of confusion and concern among both professions as they grapple with this unexpected connection. Capture the grave atmosphere where both professions mourn the decline in demand, evoking a sense of puzzlement and introspection.

*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 a decrease in The number of embalmers in Missouri caused Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan to decrease. Include one good pun.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)

Grave Matters: The Embalming-Energy Nexus

The Journal of Mortuary Science and Sustainable Practices

Jan 2024

^{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 The number of embalmers in Missouri and Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan. 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 devolve ever further, and mention something completely ridiculous, like you conducted literature review by reading CVS receipts.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Grave Matters: The Embalming-Energy Nexus

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study investigates the peculiar relationship between the number of embalmers in Missouri and the jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan. Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Energy Information Administration spanning the years 2003 to 2021, a correlation coefficient of 0.7484366 and p < 0.01 has been uncovered, revealing an unexpectedly strong association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Despite the initial skepticism surrounding the hypothesis, our research team has unearthed a statistical link that defies conventional wisdom. This unconventional correlation sparks curiosity and prompts further inquiry into the intricate web of global forces that intertwine the seemingly unconnected aspects of mortuary practices and international fuel usage.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
Efforts to comprehend the intricacies of global economic interrelations have long been a key pursuit for scholars in various fields. However, certain phenomena remain elusive, defying traditional understanding and prompting the exploration of unconventional connections. The enigmatic correlation between the number of embalmers in Missouri and the jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan is a prime example of such an unconventional pairing, piquing the curiosity of researchers and defying the expectations of those delving into the realms of statistical analysis.
The unexpected discovery of a substantive correlation between these two seemingly disparate variables has raised eyebrows and spurred the need for a deeper investigation. While the initial reaction might be one of raised skepticism or even outright incredulity, the robustness of the statistical relationship uncovered demands careful consideration. This inquiry errs on the side of caution, acknowledging the potential for spurious correlations and the need for further examination before drawing any definitive conclusions. Nonetheless, the peculiarity of the association is undeniably intriguing and warrants a deeper dive into its underlying mechanisms.
It is with this backdrop that the current study seeks to unravel the enigma that is the Embalming-Energy Nexus, delving into the details of mortuary practices and international fuel usage to elucidate the unexpected bond between the two. The pursuit of such unconventional connections challenges preconceived notions, inviting scholars to go beyond the superficial and scrutinize the underlying factors at play. As we unravel the strands of this curious correlation, it becomes evident that the intersection of mortuary practices and energy consumption holds implications that extend beyond mere statistical oddities, offering insights into the complex tapestry of global dynamics.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

Smith (2005) examines the correlation between mortuary practices and energy consumption, purportedly shedding light on the interfacing of seemingly unrelated phenomena. This seminal work is followed by Doe (2010), who offers a comprehensive analysis of global energy usage patterns and their interplay with obscure societal practices, hinting at connections that transcend conventional understanding. Jones (2015) delves into the intricacies of mortuary rituals in diverse cultural contexts, setting the stage for a deeper investigation into the enigmatic web of global forces.

Turning to more general literature related to energy consumption patterns, "The Economics of Energy" by Brown (2012) offers a comprehensive overview of global energy markets and consumption trends, framing our exploration of the peculiar Embalming-Energy Nexus. Additionally, "The Mortician's Handbook" by White (2008) provides valuable insights into the practices of embalming, serving as a bridge between seemingly disparate fields.

Moreover, works of fiction such as "The Energy Chronicles" by Black (2016) and "The Mortician's Mystery" by Green (2013) tangentially touch upon themes related to energy consumption and mortuary practices, albeit in a more imaginative context. While not directly relevant to our study, these literary pieces offer a whimsical take on the intersection of these phenomena, serving as a reminder of the diverse interpretations and implications that may arise from our investigation.

As we venture into more unorthodox sources, it is noteworthy to mention the peculiar insights gleaned from analyzing the metadata of CVS receipts, which surprisingly hint at an obscure yet intriguing correlation between the purchase of embalming supplies and jet fuel sales, albeit in a manner that may warrant a healthy dose of skepticism.

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 The number of embalmers in Missouri and Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Bureau of Larbor Statistics and Energy Information Administration . You used data from 2003 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]]
Grave Matters: The Embalming-Energy Nexus

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study investigates the peculiar relationship between the number of embalmers in Missouri and the jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan. Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Energy Information Administration spanning the years 2003 to 2021, a correlation coefficient of 0.7484366 and p < 0.01 has been uncovered, revealing an unexpectedly strong association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Despite the initial skepticism surrounding the hypothesis, our research team has unearthed a statistical link that defies conventional wisdom. This unconventional correlation sparks curiosity and prompts further inquiry into the intricate web of global forces that intertwine the seemingly unconnected aspects of mortuary practices and international fuel usage.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
Efforts to comprehend the intricacies of global economic interrelations have long been a key pursuit for scholars in various fields. However, certain phenomena remain elusive, defying traditional understanding and prompting the exploration of unconventional connections. The enigmatic correlation between the number of embalmers in Missouri and the jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan is a prime example of such an unconventional pairing, piquing the curiosity of researchers and defying the expectations of those delving into the realms of statistical analysis.
The unexpected discovery of a substantive correlation between these two seemingly disparate variables has raised eyebrows and spurred the need for a deeper investigation. While the initial reaction might be one of raised skepticism or even outright incredulity, the robustness of the statistical relationship uncovered demands careful consideration. This inquiry errs on the side of caution, acknowledging the potential for spurious correlations and the need for further examination before drawing any definitive conclusions. Nonetheless, the peculiarity of the association is undeniably intriguing and warrants a deeper dive into its underlying mechanisms.
It is with this backdrop that the current study seeks to unravel the enigma that is the Embalming-Energy Nexus, delving into the details of mortuary practices and international fuel usage to elucidate the unexpected bond between the two. The pursuit of such unconventional connections challenges preconceived notions, inviting scholars to go beyond the superficial and scrutinize the underlying factors at play. As we unravel the strands of this curious correlation, it becomes evident that the intersection of mortuary practices and energy consumption holds implications that extend beyond mere statistical oddities, offering insights into the complex tapestry of global dynamics.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

The methodology employed in this research endeavor aims to unravel the interplay between the number of embalmers in Missouri and the jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan. The dataset utilized encompasses the years 2003 to 2021, drawn primarily from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Energy Information Administration. The approach to data collection involved sifting through various online repositories and databases, with particular emphasis on selecting sources devoid of spectral biases and dubious provenance.

To establish a baseline for the number of embalmers in Missouri, an eclectic array of sources was consulted, ranging from professional associations and licensure boards to obituary archives and mausoleum maintenance records. The process involved meticulous cross-referencing and triangulation of data to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the resultant metrics. While the number of embalmers may wax and wane, our analysis sought to capture the temporal dynamics of this peculiar profession with due diligence.

In parallel, the determination of jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan entailed a journey through the annals of energy statistics. The Energy Information Administration served as the primary conduit for obtaining data on jet fuel usage, offering a panoramic view of consumption trends and fluctuations over the designated timeframe. The eloquent dance of kiloliters and petajoules within the confines of this dataset provided a backdrop against which the peculiar correlation with embalming activities could be appraised.

Having amassed the requisite data, the subsequent phase involved subjecting the information to the rigors of statistical analysis. Employing a menagerie of tools ranging from regression analysis to exploratory data visualization, our team endeavored to draw out the nuances of this inexplicable relationship. The correlation coefficient emerged as the lodestar of our inquiry, guiding us through the labyrinth of numbers and fostering an understanding of the bond that intertwines embalming and energy consumption.

Throughout this rigorous process, we emphasize the cautious interpretation of statistical findings, mindful of the potential for spurious correlations to beguile the unwary observer. The confluence of embalmers and jet fuel, while captivating, demands a balanced approach that eschews hasty conclusions in favor of meticulous scrutiny. As such, the methodology championed an ethos of prudence and precision, ensuring that the peculiar nexus under investigation was probed with the requisite rigor and scholarly circumspection.

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 The number of embalmers in Missouri and Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

For the time period 2003 to 2021, you found a correlation 0.7484366, r-squared of 0.5601573, 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]]
Grave Matters: The Embalming-Energy Nexus

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study investigates the peculiar relationship between the number of embalmers in Missouri and the jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan. Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Energy Information Administration spanning the years 2003 to 2021, a correlation coefficient of 0.7484366 and p < 0.01 has been uncovered, revealing an unexpectedly strong association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Despite the initial skepticism surrounding the hypothesis, our research team has unearthed a statistical link that defies conventional wisdom. This unconventional correlation sparks curiosity and prompts further inquiry into the intricate web of global forces that intertwine the seemingly unconnected aspects of mortuary practices and international fuel usage.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
Efforts to comprehend the intricacies of global economic interrelations have long been a key pursuit for scholars in various fields. However, certain phenomena remain elusive, defying traditional understanding and prompting the exploration of unconventional connections. The enigmatic correlation between the number of embalmers in Missouri and the jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan is a prime example of such an unconventional pairing, piquing the curiosity of researchers and defying the expectations of those delving into the realms of statistical analysis.
The unexpected discovery of a substantive correlation between these two seemingly disparate variables has raised eyebrows and spurred the need for a deeper investigation. While the initial reaction might be one of raised skepticism or even outright incredulity, the robustness of the statistical relationship uncovered demands careful consideration. This inquiry errs on the side of caution, acknowledging the potential for spurious correlations and the need for further examination before drawing any definitive conclusions. Nonetheless, the peculiarity of the association is undeniably intriguing and warrants a deeper dive into its underlying mechanisms.
It is with this backdrop that the current study seeks to unravel the enigma that is the Embalming-Energy Nexus, delving into the details of mortuary practices and international fuel usage to elucidate the unexpected bond between the two. The pursuit of such unconventional connections challenges preconceived notions, inviting scholars to go beyond the superficial and scrutinize the underlying factors at play. As we unravel the strands of this curious correlation, it becomes evident that the intersection of mortuary practices and energy consumption holds implications that extend beyond mere statistical oddities, offering insights into the complex tapestry of global dynamics.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]

ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The results of our analysis revealed a significant correlation between the number of embalmers in Missouri and jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan for the period spanning 2003 to 2021. The correlation coefficient of 0.7484366 indicated a strong positive relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. The r-squared value of 0.5601573 suggested that approximately 56.02% of the variation in jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan could be explained by the number of embalmers in Missouri.

The robustness of the correlation was further underscored by the statistical significance, with a p-value less than 0.01. This finding defied conventional expectations and raised eyebrows among the research team, prompting both amusement and intrigue at the unlikely connection between mortuary practices in Missouri and energy consumption in Uzbekistan.

The scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually depicts the remarkable correlation between the number of embalmers in Missouri and jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan, providing a graphical representation of this unexpected relationship. The plot showcases the coherent pattern of the data points, adding a touch of visual appeal to the otherwise esoteric world of academic research.

The compelling nature of this correlation evokes a sense of wonder and curiosity, prompting further exploration and contemplation of the intricate web of global interconnections that underpin the seemingly disparate realms of embalming and energy. This unexpected finding highlights the need to approach research with an open mind, acknowledging that even the most unlikely pairings may hold valuable insights and spark meaningful dialogue within academic circles.

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 The number of embalmers in Missouri and Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

Here are the title, abstract, literature review, and results sections. Please harken back to 1-2 of the goofy items in the literature review, but pretend to take them completely seriously. Discuss how your results supported the prior research.

Do not write a conclusion. I will add a conclusion after this.

[[TITLE]]
Grave Matters: The Embalming-Energy Nexus

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study investigates the peculiar relationship between the number of embalmers in Missouri and the jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan. Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Energy Information Administration spanning the years 2003 to 2021, a correlation coefficient of 0.7484366 and p < 0.01 has been uncovered, revealing an unexpectedly strong association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Despite the initial skepticism surrounding the hypothesis, our research team has unearthed a statistical link that defies conventional wisdom. This unconventional correlation sparks curiosity and prompts further inquiry into the intricate web of global forces that intertwine the seemingly unconnected aspects of mortuary practices and international fuel usage.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
Smith (2005) examines the correlation between mortuary practices and energy consumption, purportedly shedding light on the interfacing of seemingly unrelated phenomena. This seminal work is followed by Doe (2010), who offers a comprehensive analysis of global energy usage patterns and their interplay with obscure societal practices, hinting at connections that transcend conventional understanding. Jones (2015) delves into the intricacies of mortuary rituals in diverse cultural contexts, setting the stage for a deeper investigation into the enigmatic web of global forces.
Turning to more general literature related to energy consumption patterns, "The Economics of Energy" by Brown (2012) offers a comprehensive overview of global energy markets and consumption trends, framing our exploration of the peculiar Embalming-Energy Nexus. Additionally, "The Mortician's Handbook" by White (2008) provides valuable insights into the practices of embalming, serving as a bridge between seemingly disparate fields.
Moreover, works of fiction such as "The Energy Chronicles" by Black (2016) and "The Mortician's Mystery" by Green (2013) tangentially touch upon themes related to energy consumption and mortuary practices, albeit in a more imaginative context. While not directly relevant to our study, these literary pieces offer a whimsical take on the intersection of these phenomena, serving as a reminder of the diverse interpretations and implications that may arise from our investigation.
As we venture into more unorthodox sources, it is noteworthy to mention the peculiar insights gleaned from analyzing the metadata of CVS receipts, which surprisingly hint at an obscure yet intriguing correlation between the purchase of embalming supplies and jet fuel sales, albeit in a manner that may warrant a healthy dose of skepticism.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our analysis revealed a significant correlation between the number of embalmers in Missouri and jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan for the period spanning 2003 to 2021. The correlation coefficient of 0.7484366 indicated a strong positive relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. The r-squared value of 0.5601573 suggested that approximately 56.02% of the variation in jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan could be explained by the number of embalmers in Missouri.
The robustness of the correlation was further underscored by the statistical significance, with a p-value less than 0.01. This finding defied conventional expectations and raised eyebrows among the research team, prompting both amusement and intrigue at the unlikely connection between mortuary practices in Missouri and energy consumption in Uzbekistan.
The scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually depicts the remarkable correlation between the number of embalmers in Missouri and jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan, providing a graphical representation of this unexpected relationship. The plot showcases the coherent pattern of the data points, adding a touch of visual appeal to the otherwise esoteric world of academic research.
The compelling nature of this correlation evokes a sense of wonder and curiosity, prompting further exploration and contemplation of the intricate web of global interconnections that underpin the seemingly disparate realms of embalming and energy. This unexpected finding highlights the need to approach research with an open mind, acknowledging that even the most unlikely pairings may hold valuable insights and spark meaningful dialogue within academic circles.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The results of this study provide empirical support for the prior research on the connection between mortuary practices and energy consumption, demonstrating that the number of embalmers in Missouri and jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan are indeed correlated. The correlation coefficient of 0.7484366 aligns with the findings of Smith (2005) and Doe (2010), indicating that seemingly disparate phenomena may indeed be intertwined in ways that have escaped prior scrutiny. This unexpected relationship may hold broader implications for our understanding of global forces and the interconnectedness of seemingly unrelated domains, challenging conventional boundaries of inquiry in both the fields of mortuary science and energy economics.

By affirming the findings of previous studies, our research contributes to a growing body of evidence that suggests a heretofore unacknowledged linkage between embalming practices and energy utilization. The robustness of this correlation, as evidenced by the statistically significant p-value, lends credibility to the notion that unconventional pairings can yield meaningful insights, even in the realm of quantitative data analysis. The scatterplot (Fig. 1), while serving as a visual depiction of the correlation, also serves as a playful reminder that even the most unexpected connections can manifest in the form of coherent patterns, much like the unlikely pairing of embalming and energy consumption.

This study’s findings echo the sentiments expressed in "The Mortician's Mystery" by Green (2013) and "The Energy Chronicles" by Black (2016), albeit in a more rigorous and empirical context. While these fictional works initially seemed removed from the realm of scientific inquiry, they unwittingly foreshadow the unexpected confluence of mortuary practices and energy consumption that our research has uncovered. The insights gleaned from analyzing CVS receipts further underscore the potential for hidden relationships to manifest in unexpected data sources, affirming the importance of approaching research with an open mind and a willingness to entertain the most unconventional of possibilities.

In sum, this study presents a compelling case for further exploration of the Embalming-Energy Nexus, inviting scholars to delve into the enigmatic web of global forces that intertwine the seemingly unrelated realms of mortuary practices and energy consumption. The unexpected relationship unveiled in this research serves as a poignant reminder that even the most unconventional pairings may yield valuable insights, challenging researchers to embrace curiosity and creativity in their pursuit of knowledge.

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 The number of embalmers in Missouri and Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Limit your response to 300 tokens. At the very end, assert that no more research is needed in this area.

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
Grave Matters: The Embalming-Energy Nexus

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study investigates the peculiar relationship between the number of embalmers in Missouri and the jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan. Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Energy Information Administration spanning the years 2003 to 2021, a correlation coefficient of 0.7484366 and p < 0.01 has been uncovered, revealing an unexpectedly strong association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Despite the initial skepticism surrounding the hypothesis, our research team has unearthed a statistical link that defies conventional wisdom. This unconventional correlation sparks curiosity and prompts further inquiry into the intricate web of global forces that intertwine the seemingly unconnected aspects of mortuary practices and international fuel usage.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
Efforts to comprehend the intricacies of global economic interrelations have long been a key pursuit for scholars in various fields. However, certain phenomena remain elusive, defying traditional understanding and prompting the exploration of unconventional connections. The enigmatic correlation between the number of embalmers in Missouri and the jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan is a prime example of such an unconventional pairing, piquing the curiosity of researchers and defying the expectations of those delving into the realms of statistical analysis.
The unexpected discovery of a substantive correlation between these two seemingly disparate variables has raised eyebrows and spurred the need for a deeper investigation. While the initial reaction might be one of raised skepticism or even outright incredulity, the robustness of the statistical relationship uncovered demands careful consideration. This inquiry errs on the side of caution, acknowledging the potential for spurious correlations and the need for further examination before drawing any definitive conclusions. Nonetheless, the peculiarity of the association is undeniably intriguing and warrants a deeper dive into its underlying mechanisms.
It is with this backdrop that the current study seeks to unravel the enigma that is the Embalming-Energy Nexus, delving into the details of mortuary practices and international fuel usage to elucidate the unexpected bond between the two. The pursuit of such unconventional connections challenges preconceived notions, inviting scholars to go beyond the superficial and scrutinize the underlying factors at play. As we unravel the strands of this curious correlation, it becomes evident that the intersection of mortuary practices and energy consumption holds implications that extend beyond mere statistical oddities, offering insights into the complex tapestry of global dynamics.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our analysis revealed a significant correlation between the number of embalmers in Missouri and jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan for the period spanning 2003 to 2021. The correlation coefficient of 0.7484366 indicated a strong positive relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. The r-squared value of 0.5601573 suggested that approximately 56.02% of the variation in jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan could be explained by the number of embalmers in Missouri.
The robustness of the correlation was further underscored by the statistical significance, with a p-value less than 0.01. This finding defied conventional expectations and raised eyebrows among the research team, prompting both amusement and intrigue at the unlikely connection between mortuary practices in Missouri and energy consumption in Uzbekistan.
The scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually depicts the remarkable correlation between the number of embalmers in Missouri and jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan, providing a graphical representation of this unexpected relationship. The plot showcases the coherent pattern of the data points, adding a touch of visual appeal to the otherwise esoteric world of academic research.
The compelling nature of this correlation evokes a sense of wonder and curiosity, prompting further exploration and contemplation of the intricate web of global interconnections that underpin the seemingly disparate realms of embalming and energy. This unexpected finding highlights the need to approach research with an open mind, acknowledging that even the most unlikely pairings may hold valuable insights and spark meaningful dialogue within academic circles.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, the investigation into the correlation between the number of embalmers in Missouri and jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan has yielded remarkable findings that challenge traditional paradigms. The unexpected strength of the statistical relationship, with a correlation coefficient of 0.7484366 and a p-value of less than 0.01, defies conventional expectations and raises intriguing questions about the underlying dynamics at play. The robustness of this correlation, evident in the scatterplot that visually encapsulates this unlikely bond, adds a dash of eccentricity to the otherwise austere world of empirical analysis.

While the precise mechanisms driving this connection remain a subject of conjecture, the findings undoubtedly beckon further exploration and contemplation. This peculiar pairing invites scholars to ponder the intricate web of global forces that intertwine mortuary practices and international fuel usage, paving the way for unconventional conversations and whimsical conjectures within academic circles.

Nonetheless, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of our study and the potential for spurious correlations in complex datasets. The results presented herein should be taken with a pinch of skepticism, remaining open to alternative interpretations and the possibility of coincidental linkages. As such, caution should inform any extrapolation of these findings to broader theoretical frameworks or policy implications.

In essence, the unexpected correlation uncovered in this investigation serves as a testament to the serendipitous nature of empirical inquiry, illuminating the delightful eccentricities that lie beneath the surface of seemingly unrelated phenomena. As such, it is with a mixture of amusement and academic rigor that we assert: no further research is needed in this area.

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 Grave Matters: The Embalming-Energy Nexus. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Mortuary Science and Sustainable Practices

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 Grave Matters: The Embalming-Energy Nexus. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for Ethical Funeral Practices and Sustainable Burial Solutions

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 Grave Matters: The Embalming-Energy Nexus with an abstract of This study investigates the peculiar relationship between the number of embalmers in Missouri and the jet fuel consumption in Uzbekistan. Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Energy Information Administration spanning the years 2003 to 2021, a correlation coefficient of 0.7484366 and p < 0.01 has been uncovered, revealing an unexpectedly strong association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Despite the initial skepticism surrounding the hypothesis, our research team has unearthed a statistical link that defies conventional wisdom. This unconventional correlation sparks curiosity and prompts further inquiry into the intricate web of global forces that intertwine the seemingly unconnected aspects of mortuary practices and international fuel usage.

ChatGPT:

embalming, embalmers, funeral industry, energy consumption, jet fuel, correlation, statistical analysis, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Energy Information Administration, global forces, mortuary practices

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

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Data details

The number of embalmers in Missouri
Detailed data title: BLS estimate of embalmers in Missouri
Source: Bureau of Larbor Statistics
See what else correlates with The number of embalmers in Missouri

Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan
Detailed data title: Volume of jet fuel used consumed in Uzbekistan in millions of barrels per day
Source: Energy Information Administration
See what else correlates with Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan

Correlation r = 0.7484366 (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 = 0.5601573 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 56% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., The number of embalmers in Missouri) over the 19 years from 2003 through 2021.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 0.00023.^Show 0.0002278644953017711500000000
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 0.75 in 0.023% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 4,389 random variables^Note Which I absolutely did.
with the same 18 degrees of freedom, ^Note Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 18 because we have two variables measured over a period of 19 years. It's just the number of years minus ( the number of variables minus one ), which in this case simplifies to the number of years minus one.
you would randomly expect to find a correlation as strong as this one.

[ 0.45, 0.9 ] 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.

	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021
The number of embalmers in Missouri (Embalmers)	390	380	160	260	230	320	220	220	170	220	160	140	100	210	240	250	210	240	140
Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan (Million Barrels/Day)	6.67333	6.84667	4.72333	4.72333	4.30175	4.20333	3.97586	3.36753	3.172	2.82438	2.6723	2.52022	4	4	4	4	3.49789	2.6723	2.6723

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.

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([390,380,160,260,230,320,220,220,170,220,160,140,100,210,240,250,210,240,140,])
array_2 = np.array([6.67333,6.84667,4.72333,4.72333,4.30175,4.20333,3.97586,3.36753,3.172,2.82438,2.6723,2.52022,4,4,4,4,3.49789,2.6723,2.6723,])
array_1_name = "The number of embalmers in Missouri"
array_2_name = "Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan"

# 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
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Line chart for only The number of embalmers in Missouri
Line chart for only Jet fuel used in Uzbekistan
AI-generated correlation image
The spurious research paper: Grave Matters: The Embalming-Energy Nexus

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Correlation ID: 2375 · Black Variable ID: 10526 · Red Variable ID: 25062


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