Spurious correlation #3,142 · 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 avionics technicians in Alaska and the second variable is xkcd comics published about outer space. The chart goes from 2008 to 2022, 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 avionics technicians in Alaska and the second variable is xkcd comics published about outer space. The chart goes from 2008 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

Download png, svg

AI explanation

As more avionics technicians populated Alaska, the local demand for aerospace-related reading material skyrocketed. This prompted the xkcd creator to tap into the niche market of Alaskan avionics enthusiasts, leading to a cosmic influx of outer space comics. It seems like the northern lights weren't the only things in Alaska sparking an electric connection to all things space! Or perhaps the technicians were simply inspiring some high-flying creativity from the comfort of their igloos. Who knew that the Last Frontier would play a pivotal role in the comic universe's expansion to infinity and beyond? It's like they say, the sky's the limit, especially when your state is as plane crazy as Alaska!

^{Show image generation prompt} Model: dalle-3
Prompt: [ An image that looks like it is a scene from a Pixar movie ] Show avionics technicians bustling in a workshop in Alaska, surrounded by advanced flight instruments. The background features a bulletin board adorned with xkcd comics featuring astronauts and galaxies, demonstrating the growing fascination with outer space. The technicians are engaged in lively discussions about cosmic concepts, with a new xkcd comic about a space mission being pinned up, symbolizing the surging interest in cosmic knowledge. 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 avionics technicians in Alaska and xkcd comics published about outer space. 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: An image that looks like it is a scene from A Disney Movie Symbolism An image that looks like it is a scene from a Pixar movie Voxel art An image that looks like it is a scene from a Pixar movie
ChatGPT: An image that looks like it is a scene from a Pixar movie

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both The number of avionics technicians in Alaska and xkcd comics published about outer space, in the following situation: As the number of avionics technicians in Alaska increases, there is a corresponding rise in the demand for cosmic knowledge, leading more xkcd comics about outer space to be published as a way to educate and entertain this new demographic.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a bustling workshop in Alaska, avionics technicians are busy at work, surrounded by advanced flight instruments. In the background, a bulletin board is covered with xkcd comics featuring astronauts and galaxies, showcasing the growing interest in outer space. As the technicians eagerly discuss cosmic concepts, a new xkcd comic about a space mission is pinned up, reflecting the increasing demand for cosmic knowledge.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You write and improve image generation prompts for DALLE-3. You maintain the same subjects, but enhance the visuals.
User prompt: Please respond with an image generation prompt that would be likely to create an interesting visual using DALLE-3, using the following style: [ An image that looks like it is a scene from a Pixar movie ] and depicting this scene: In a bustling workshop in Alaska, avionics technicians are busy at work, surrounded by advanced flight instruments. In the background, a bulletin board is covered with xkcd comics featuring astronauts and galaxies, showcasing the growing interest in outer space. As the technicians eagerly discuss cosmic concepts, a new xkcd comic about a space mission is pinned up, reflecting the increasing demand for cosmic knowledge. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: [ An image that looks like it is a scene from a Pixar movie ] Show avionics technicians bustling in a workshop in Alaska, surrounded by advanced flight instruments. The background features a bulletin board adorned with xkcd comics featuring astronauts and galaxies, demonstrating the growing fascination with outer space. The technicians are engaged in lively discussions about cosmic concepts, with a new xkcd comic about a space mission being pinned up, symbolizing the surging interest in cosmic knowledge.

*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 The number of avionics technicians in Alaska caused xkcd comics published about outer space to increase.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)

The Sky's the Limit: A Study on the Correlation Between Avionics Technicians in Alaska and xkcd Comics About Outer Space

Journal of Aeronautical Humor and Extraterrestrial Studies

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 goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 avionics technicians in Alaska and xkcd comics published about outer space. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

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

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

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Then devolve ever further, and mention something completely ridiculous, like you conducted literature review by reading CVS receipts.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The Sky's the Limit: A Study on the Correlation Between Avionics Technicians in Alaska and xkcd Comics About Outer Space

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this research paper, we boldly go where no one has gone before (except perhaps in the minds of aviation enthusiasts and comic aficionados) to explore the curious relationship between the number of avionics technicians in the wild frontier of Alaska and the prevalence of xkcd comics that humorously delve into outer space. With a vast dataset procured from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and an eccentric AI analysis of xkcd comics, we sought to uncover if, perchance, a connection exists between the two seemingly disparate entities.

As we delved into our data, we discovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.8156890, indicating a moderately strong positive association, and with a p-value less than 0.01 for the years 2008 to 2022. This correlation left us feeling over the moon but also had us questioning the cosmic forces at play, or perhaps just the comedic inclinations of the cartoonist.

Throughout our analysis, we couldn't help but ponder whether this correlation was due to a genuine cosmic intrigue shared by both avionics aficionados and xkcd enthusiasts, or simply a cosmic joke that we had yet to decipher. Much like a well-crafted dad joke, this correlation kept us chuckling as we delved deeper into the data.

This paper not only sheds light on the unexpected connection between the skies above and the humor found in xkcd comics but also reminds us of the wondrous and often whimsical ways in which disparate elements of society can intersect.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
As humanity ventures into the vast expanse of the cosmos, the intersection of aerospace technology and popular culture becomes increasingly relevant. In this study, we aim to explore the peculiar relationship between the number of avionics technicians in the rugged terrain of Alaska and the abundant xkcd comics that playfully probe the mysteries of outer space. It's a pairing that may seem as unlikely as a plane with no windows—yet here we are, seeking to unravel its enigmatic charm.
The correlation between avionics technicians in Alaska and xkcd comics about outer space has captivated our curiosity, much like a good dad joke captivates an audience at a backyard barbecue. You could say we're "flying high" with excitement to delve into this quirky correlation, and we're not "winging" it when we say we're eager to present our findings.
As we embark on this scientific endeavor, we must navigate through the "airspace" of statistical analysis and comic interpretation, all while maintaining a serious scholarly demeanor—although we may sneak in a pun or two along the way. After all, what's research without a little "pilot" humor to lighten the sky-high load?
To approach this investigation, we procured a robust dataset from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, mapping the fluctuations in the number of avionics technicians in Alaska over the past decade. Concurrently, we engaged in an unconventional analysis of xkcd comics related to outer space, employing an algorithm that can only be described as "out of this world." Dad joke alert! But seriously, our algorithm combed through the extensive xkcd archives with a keen eye for all things space-related, unearthing a treasure trove of comic enlightenment.
The correlation uncovered between the two seemingly unrelated entities left us feeling as giddy as a scientist with a new discovery—and, much like a dad with a groan-inducing joke, we couldn't resist sharing our findings with the world. So, join us as we take flight into the realm of avionics and outer space humor, where data and comics collide in an unexpectedly harmonious dance.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The study of the correlation between the number of avionics technicians in Alaska and the publication of xkcd comics on outer space is a matter of great intrigue, facilitating the union of two seemingly disparate fields. In their seminal work, Smith and Doe (2015) examined the cultural impact of avionics technicians in remote regions, shedding light on the inherent challenges and unique skill set required for this specialized profession.

Now, let's delve into the literature to see how this peculiar correlation has fared in the scholarly realm. As we navigate through this academic journey, expect to encounter a few unexpected twists and cosmic puns along the way—we couldn't resist injecting a bit of levity into this celestial association.

In "Rockets and Laughter: An Analysis of Space Comedy within xkcd," Jones (2018) dives into the comedic elements present in xkcd comics related to outer space, emphasizing the role of humor in engaging audiences with scientific concepts. While the focus of the study was not directly aligned with our current investigation, the insights gleaned from Jones' research have certainly left us chuckling as we ponder the fascinating intersection of aerospace humor and avionics expertise.

Turning to non-fiction narratives with potential relevance, "Cosmic Wonders: Exploring the Universe Through Comics" by Astro Humor Society (2016) provides a comprehensive exploration of the comedic portrayal of celestial phenomena in popular culture. While this work may not pinpoint the specific connection between avionics technicians in Alaska and xkcd comics about outer space, it certainly offers a whimsical perspective that resonates with our research interests.

On a more fictional note, the sci-fi classic "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" by Douglas Adams (1979) beckons readers into a whimsical odyssey through the cosmos, peppered with satirical commentary and absurdly accurate portrayals of space travel. As we wade through the quagmire of literature, one cannot help but ponder if this fictional journey is akin to our own pursuit of truth in the swirling abyss of avionic correlations and cosmic comedy.

And then, in an unconventional twist, we found ourselves thumbing through the unexpected realm of CVS receipts, meticulously dissecting every purchase and discount in search of hidden codes and cryptic messages related to avionics and xkcd. Alas, our foray into the tangential world of retail relics yielded nothing more than expired coupons and a surplus of "buy one, get one" deals—not exactly the cosmic revelations we were hoping for.

As we reflect on the divergent paths our literature review has taken, we are reminded of the whimsical nature of scholarly exploration and the unexpected sources that can sprinkle a bit of stardust on our academic endeavors.

In this review, we've meandered through the serious, the speculative, and the utterly absurd, all in an effort to unravel the enigmatic connection between avionics technicians in Alaska and the delightful xkcd comics that twinkle with outer space humor. And much like a well-timed dad joke, this correlation has kept us laughing and pondering in equal measure.

So, as we prepare to present our formal findings, we remain open to the cosmic whimsy and scholarly surprises that may yet reveal themselves as we continue our journey into the celestial unknown.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 avionics technicians in Alaska and xkcd comics published about outer space. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

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 Sky's the Limit: A Study on the Correlation Between Avionics Technicians in Alaska and xkcd Comics About Outer Space

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this research paper, we boldly go where no one has gone before (except perhaps in the minds of aviation enthusiasts and comic aficionados) to explore the curious relationship between the number of avionics technicians in the wild frontier of Alaska and the prevalence of xkcd comics that humorously delve into outer space. With a vast dataset procured from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and an eccentric AI analysis of xkcd comics, we sought to uncover if, perchance, a connection exists between the two seemingly disparate entities.

As we delved into our data, we discovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.8156890, indicating a moderately strong positive association, and with a p-value less than 0.01 for the years 2008 to 2022. This correlation left us feeling over the moon but also had us questioning the cosmic forces at play, or perhaps just the comedic inclinations of the cartoonist.

Throughout our analysis, we couldn't help but ponder whether this correlation was due to a genuine cosmic intrigue shared by both avionics aficionados and xkcd enthusiasts, or simply a cosmic joke that we had yet to decipher. Much like a well-crafted dad joke, this correlation kept us chuckling as we delved deeper into the data.

This paper not only sheds light on the unexpected connection between the skies above and the humor found in xkcd comics but also reminds us of the wondrous and often whimsical ways in which disparate elements of society can intersect.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The study of the correlation between the number of avionics technicians in Alaska and the publication of xkcd comics on outer space is a matter of great intrigue, facilitating the union of two seemingly disparate fields. In their seminal work, Smith and Doe (2015) examined the cultural impact of avionics technicians in remote regions, shedding light on the inherent challenges and unique skill set required for this specialized profession.
Now, let's delve into the literature to see how this peculiar correlation has fared in the scholarly realm. As we navigate through this academic journey, expect to encounter a few unexpected twists and cosmic puns along the way—we couldn't resist injecting a bit of levity into this celestial association.
In "Rockets and Laughter: An Analysis of Space Comedy within xkcd," Jones (2018) dives into the comedic elements present in xkcd comics related to outer space, emphasizing the role of humor in engaging audiences with scientific concepts. While the focus of the study was not directly aligned with our current investigation, the insights gleaned from Jones' research have certainly left us chuckling as we ponder the fascinating intersection of aerospace humor and avionics expertise.
Turning to non-fiction narratives with potential relevance, "Cosmic Wonders: Exploring the Universe Through Comics" by Astro Humor Society (2016) provides a comprehensive exploration of the comedic portrayal of celestial phenomena in popular culture. While this work may not pinpoint the specific connection between avionics technicians in Alaska and xkcd comics about outer space, it certainly offers a whimsical perspective that resonates with our research interests.
On a more fictional note, the sci-fi classic "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" by Douglas Adams (1979) beckons readers into a whimsical odyssey through the cosmos, peppered with satirical commentary and absurdly accurate portrayals of space travel. As we wade through the quagmire of literature, one cannot help but ponder if this fictional journey is akin to our own pursuit of truth in the swirling abyss of avionic correlations and cosmic comedy.
And then, in an unconventional twist, we found ourselves thumbing through the unexpected realm of CVS receipts, meticulously dissecting every purchase and discount in search of hidden codes and cryptic messages related to avionics and xkcd. Alas, our foray into the tangential world of retail relics yielded nothing more than expired coupons and a surplus of "buy one, get one" deals—not exactly the cosmic revelations we were hoping for.
As we reflect on the divergent paths our literature review has taken, we are reminded of the whimsical nature of scholarly exploration and the unexpected sources that can sprinkle a bit of stardust on our academic endeavors.
In this review, we've meandered through the serious, the speculative, and the utterly absurd, all in an effort to unravel the enigmatic connection between avionics technicians in Alaska and the delightful xkcd comics that twinkle with outer space humor. And much like a well-timed dad joke, this correlation has kept us laughing and pondering in equal measure.
So, as we prepare to present our formal findings, we remain open to the cosmic whimsy and scholarly surprises that may yet reveal themselves as we continue our journey into the celestial unknown.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the data uncovered a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8156890 between the number of avionics technicians in Alaska and the quantity of xkcd comics featuring outer space themes. This correlation coefficient indicates a moderately strong positive association between these two seemingly disparate subjects, leaving us with a sense of cosmic wonder and perhaps a newfound appreciation for the quirkier aspects of scientific inquiry.
Fig. 1 displays a scatterplot illustrating the notable correlation observed between the number of avionics technicians in Alaska and the prevalence of xkcd comics about outer space. The scatterplot vividly portrays the positive trend, reminiscent of the gravitational pull between two celestial bodies—although in this case, it’s a pull between occupation and comic content rather than heavenly bodies. The figures are quite literally "out of this world," and we couldn't resist pointing that out.
Our findings also yielded an r-squared value of 0.6653486, further underscoring the strength of the relationship between the variables. This r-squared value suggests that approximately 66.53% of the variation in xkcd comics about outer space can be explained by the fluctuations in the number of avionics technicians in Alaska. It's as though the cosmos itself conspired to weave these seemingly unrelated elements into a harmonious narrative—a narrative that we have endeavored to unravel with the utmost scientific rigor and a sprinkling of extraterrestrial humor.
Moreover, the p-value for this correlation was found to be less than 0.01 for the time period from 2008 to 2022, indicating that the observed relationship is statistically significant. This result further cements the robustness of the correlation, leading us to speculate whether there's a hidden gravitational force drawing the avionics community and xkcd enthusiasts together like celestial bodies.
In the spirit of discovery and levity, we couldn't resist a dad joke or two throughout this analysis—after all, what's a scientific paper without a touch of whimsy? These correlations had us feeling like we've stumbled upon a cosmic secret, a bit like finding the punchline to a particularly elusive dad joke. That being said, our findings shed light on the unexpected convergence of aviation and comic culture, showcasing the delightful and often unexpected connections that lurk within the realms of data and humor.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our findings have brought a cosmic twist to the study of avionics technicians in Alaska and the prevalence of xkcd comics about outer space. The statistically significant correlation between these disparate entities, as revealed by our analysis, lends credence to the notion that there exists a peculiar cosmic dance between the aviation community and enthusiasts of whimsical space-based humor.

Much like a well-timed dad joke, this correlation leaves us both amused and contemplative. It's as if the universe, in its infinite complexity, has conspired to connect the skies above with the humorous musings found in the panels of xkcd. Our results echo the sentiments put forth by Smith and Doe (2015) regarding the cultural impact of avionics technicians, albeit in a way that carries a touch of unanticipated levity amidst the serious scholarly discourse. The correlation coefficient of 0.8156890 serves as a testament to the formidable bond between the avionics profession and the light-hearted exploration of outer space, much to the delight of comic aficionados and scientific enthusiasts alike.

The analysis presented in "Rockets and Laughter: An Analysis of Space Comedy within xkcd" by Jones (2018) hinted at the engaging nature of space-related humor, and our research has affirmatively supported the notion that this form of comedic expression is not only relevant but also intertwined with the professional sphere of avionics expertise. Moreover, the r-squared value of 0.6653486 provides empirical evidence that a substantial proportion of the variance in xkcd comics about outer space can be attributed to the fluctuating numbers of avionics technicians in the Alaskan region—a cosmic revelation indeed.

Our results not only bring a touch of stardust to the scholarly debate but also prompt us to consider the potential implications of this connection in practical terms. Perhaps this apparent affinity for space-themed humor reflects a shared affinity for exploration, the unknown, and the thrill of discovery—the kind that makes us feel like we've cracked the code to a particularly elusive dad joke. Whether it's a genuine cosmic intrigue or merely a cosmic joke waiting to be deciphered, the correlation we've uncovered underscores the whimsical and often unpredictable nature of scientific inquiry.

As we continue to contemplate the implications of our findings, we are reminded of the timeless adage that "the sky's the limit"—a fitting sentiment for a study that has unearthed a connection that is, quite literally, beyond earthly bounds.

The unexpected fusion of esoteric data and lighthearted humor showcased in this study serves as a whimsical reminder of the delightful and often surprising intersections that await discovery in the cosmic landscape of academic inquiry. And, much like a stellar comedy act, this correlation has kept us entertained and engrossed throughout our academic odyssey, underlining the notion that scientific exploration need not always be devoid of cosmic chuckles.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 avionics technicians in Alaska and xkcd comics published about outer space. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

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 Sky's the Limit: A Study on the Correlation Between Avionics Technicians in Alaska and xkcd Comics About Outer Space

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this research paper, we boldly go where no one has gone before (except perhaps in the minds of aviation enthusiasts and comic aficionados) to explore the curious relationship between the number of avionics technicians in the wild frontier of Alaska and the prevalence of xkcd comics that humorously delve into outer space. With a vast dataset procured from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and an eccentric AI analysis of xkcd comics, we sought to uncover if, perchance, a connection exists between the two seemingly disparate entities.

As we delved into our data, we discovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.8156890, indicating a moderately strong positive association, and with a p-value less than 0.01 for the years 2008 to 2022. This correlation left us feeling over the moon but also had us questioning the cosmic forces at play, or perhaps just the comedic inclinations of the cartoonist.

Throughout our analysis, we couldn't help but ponder whether this correlation was due to a genuine cosmic intrigue shared by both avionics aficionados and xkcd enthusiasts, or simply a cosmic joke that we had yet to decipher. Much like a well-crafted dad joke, this correlation kept us chuckling as we delved deeper into the data.

This paper not only sheds light on the unexpected connection between the skies above and the humor found in xkcd comics but also reminds us of the wondrous and often whimsical ways in which disparate elements of society can intersect.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
As humanity ventures into the vast expanse of the cosmos, the intersection of aerospace technology and popular culture becomes increasingly relevant. In this study, we aim to explore the peculiar relationship between the number of avionics technicians in the rugged terrain of Alaska and the abundant xkcd comics that playfully probe the mysteries of outer space. It's a pairing that may seem as unlikely as a plane with no windows—yet here we are, seeking to unravel its enigmatic charm.
The correlation between avionics technicians in Alaska and xkcd comics about outer space has captivated our curiosity, much like a good dad joke captivates an audience at a backyard barbecue. You could say we're "flying high" with excitement to delve into this quirky correlation, and we're not "winging" it when we say we're eager to present our findings.
As we embark on this scientific endeavor, we must navigate through the "airspace" of statistical analysis and comic interpretation, all while maintaining a serious scholarly demeanor—although we may sneak in a pun or two along the way. After all, what's research without a little "pilot" humor to lighten the sky-high load?
To approach this investigation, we procured a robust dataset from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, mapping the fluctuations in the number of avionics technicians in Alaska over the past decade. Concurrently, we engaged in an unconventional analysis of xkcd comics related to outer space, employing an algorithm that can only be described as "out of this world." Dad joke alert! But seriously, our algorithm combed through the extensive xkcd archives with a keen eye for all things space-related, unearthing a treasure trove of comic enlightenment.
The correlation uncovered between the two seemingly unrelated entities left us feeling as giddy as a scientist with a new discovery—and, much like a dad with a groan-inducing joke, we couldn't resist sharing our findings with the world. So, join us as we take flight into the realm of avionics and outer space humor, where data and comics collide in an unexpectedly harmonious dance.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the data uncovered a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8156890 between the number of avionics technicians in Alaska and the quantity of xkcd comics featuring outer space themes. This correlation coefficient indicates a moderately strong positive association between these two seemingly disparate subjects, leaving us with a sense of cosmic wonder and perhaps a newfound appreciation for the quirkier aspects of scientific inquiry.
Fig. 1 displays a scatterplot illustrating the notable correlation observed between the number of avionics technicians in Alaska and the prevalence of xkcd comics about outer space. The scatterplot vividly portrays the positive trend, reminiscent of the gravitational pull between two celestial bodies—although in this case, it’s a pull between occupation and comic content rather than heavenly bodies. The figures are quite literally "out of this world," and we couldn't resist pointing that out.
Our findings also yielded an r-squared value of 0.6653486, further underscoring the strength of the relationship between the variables. This r-squared value suggests that approximately 66.53% of the variation in xkcd comics about outer space can be explained by the fluctuations in the number of avionics technicians in Alaska. It's as though the cosmos itself conspired to weave these seemingly unrelated elements into a harmonious narrative—a narrative that we have endeavored to unravel with the utmost scientific rigor and a sprinkling of extraterrestrial humor.
Moreover, the p-value for this correlation was found to be less than 0.01 for the time period from 2008 to 2022, indicating that the observed relationship is statistically significant. This result further cements the robustness of the correlation, leading us to speculate whether there's a hidden gravitational force drawing the avionics community and xkcd enthusiasts together like celestial bodies.
In the spirit of discovery and levity, we couldn't resist a dad joke or two throughout this analysis—after all, what's a scientific paper without a touch of whimsy? These correlations had us feeling like we've stumbled upon a cosmic secret, a bit like finding the punchline to a particularly elusive dad joke. That being said, our findings shed light on the unexpected convergence of aviation and comic culture, showcasing the delightful and often unexpected connections that lurk within the realms of data and humor.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our study has unveiled a fascinating correlation between the number of avionics technicians in the Alaskan frontier and the abundance of xkcd comics centered around outer space. The moderately strong positive association with a correlation coefficient of 0.8156890 has left us feeling as euphoric as an astronaut floating weightlessly in space.

Our findings have opened up a stellar array of possibilities for further exploration and have us contemplating whether there's a cosmic force at play, or if it's just a case of pun-etic coincidence. Speaking of cosmic, did you hear about the astronaut who stepped on a piece of gum? He got stuck in orbit! It seems we can't help but scatter a few dad jokes around, much like the data points in our scatterplot.

With an r-squared value of 0.6653486, it's clear that approximately 66.53% of the variation in xkcd comics about outer space can be ascribed to the ebb and flow of avionics technicians in Alaska. It's as though these two fields are cosmically intertwined, like a pair of binary stars locked in a gravitational dance.

As we reflect on our quirky yet captivating findings, we're reminded of the words of Sigmund Freud: "The more one analyses, the more there is yet to analyze." However, in this case, we're pretty sure we've analyzed enough to last a space age. We assert with confidence that no further research is needed in this peculiar yet delightful intersection of avionics and xkcd comics. It seems our work here is as finished as a SpaceX rocket launch, dad jokes and all!

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 Sky's the Limit: A Study on the Correlation Between Avionics Technicians in Alaska and xkcd Comics About Outer Space. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

Journal of Aeronautical Humor and Extraterrestrial Studies

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of nonprofit research organizations and associations. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding nonprofit, academic, or scientific association or organization that would sponsor research that resulted in a paper entited The Sky's the Limit: A Study on the Correlation Between Avionics Technicians in Alaska and xkcd Comics About Outer Space. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for Aeronautical Humor and Technology 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 Sky's the Limit: A Study on the Correlation Between Avionics Technicians in Alaska and xkcd Comics About Outer Space with an abstract of In this research paper, we boldly go where no one has gone before (except perhaps in the minds of aviation enthusiasts and comic aficionados) to explore the curious relationship between the number of avionics technicians in the wild frontier of Alaska and the prevalence of xkcd comics that humorously delve into outer space. With a vast dataset procured from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and an eccentric AI analysis of xkcd comics, we sought to uncover if, perchance, a connection exists between the two seemingly disparate entities.
As we delved into our data, we discovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.8156890, indicating a moderately strong positive association, and with a p-value less than 0.01 for the years 2008 to 2022. This correlation left us feeling over the moon but also had us questioning the cosmic forces at play, or perhaps just the comedic inclinations of the cartoonist.
Throughout our analysis, we couldn't help but ponder whether this correlation was due to a genuine cosmic intrigue shared by both avionics aficionados and xkcd enthusiasts, or simply a cosmic joke that we had yet to decipher. Much like a well-crafted dad joke, this correlation kept us chuckling as we delved deeper into the data.
This paper not only sheds light on the unexpected connection between the skies above and the humor found in xkcd comics but also reminds us of the wondrous and often whimsical ways in which disparate elements of society can intersect.

ChatGPT:

Avionics technicians, Alaska, xkcd comics, correlation, Bureau of Labor Statistics, outer space, cosmic, eccentric AI analysis, association, correlation coefficient, p-value, cosmic forces, comedic inclinations, cosmic intrigue, aviation enthusiasts, comic aficionados, whimsical ways, data analysis.

*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 avionics technicians in Alaska
Detailed data title: BLS estimate of avionics technicians in Alaska
Source: Bureau of Larbor Statistics
See what else correlates with The number of avionics technicians in Alaska

xkcd comics published about outer space
Detailed data title: The number of xkcd comics published each year about outer space
Source: AI analysis of xkcd comics
Additional Info: ^{See full details} I designed a Python workflow to perform OCR on every xkcd comic, feed that text into a large language model, and ask the model whether this comic was about the category named in the title.

See what else correlates with xkcd comics published about outer space

Correlation r = 0.8156890 (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 = 0.6653486 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 66.5% of the change in the one variable (i.e., xkcd comics published about outer space) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., The number of avionics technicians in Alaska) over the 15 years from 2008 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 0.00021.^Show 0.0002095674203351600400000000
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 0.82 in 0.021% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 4,772 random variables^Note Which I absolutely did.
with the same 14 degrees of freedom, ^Note Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 14 because we have two variables measured over a period of 15 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.

[ 0.52, 0.94 ] 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.

	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021	2022
The number of avionics technicians in Alaska (Avionics Technicians)	70	70	50	50	50	100	120	100	70	90	100	120	70	260	190
xkcd comics published about outer space (xkcd comics)	3	3	1	1	4	7	6	5	6	5	5	9	8	11	13

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([70,70,50,50,50,100,120,100,70,90,100,120,70,260,190,])
array_2 = np.array([3,3,1,1,4,7,6,5,6,5,5,9,8,11,13,])
array_1_name = "The number of avionics technicians in Alaska"
array_2_name = "xkcd comics published about outer space"

# 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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Portable line chart (png)
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Line chart for only The number of avionics technicians in Alaska
Line chart for only xkcd comics published about outer space
AI-generated correlation image
The spurious research paper: The Sky's the Limit: A Study on the Correlation Between Avionics Technicians in Alaska and xkcd Comics About Outer Space

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Correlation ID: 3142 · Black Variable ID: 4818 · Red Variable ID: 20026


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