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Spurious correlation #3,208 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona and the second variable is Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'.  The chart goes from 2012 to 2023, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

The cleaner air in Flagstaff led to residents feeling more energetic and clear-headed. As a result, they were no longer in the mood to saddle up and dance Gangnam Style. With their lungs filled with fresh air, they decided to opt for a different form of outdoor exercise, effectively reducing the city's collective urge to gallop like a certain South Korean pop star.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Prompt: Generate a cute 2D animation scene of a bustling street in Flagstaff, Arizona. The scene includes people happily strolling down the sidewalks under a clear blue sky, with whimsical billboards in the background showcasing amusing illustrations and the words "Gangnam Style." The animation should capture the cheerful atmosphere and the lighthearted humor of the passing trend, all in a charming and playful 2D style. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.
This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona and Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'. 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: Cute 2D animation Cute 2D animation Cutsy graphics Steampunk Cubism
ChatGPT: Cute 2D animation

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona and Google searches for 'Gangnam Style', in the following situation: Because as the air quality improved in Flagstaff, Arizona, people were able to breathe easier and think more clearly, leading to a heightened awareness of the absurdity of Gangnam Style. With their brains no longer clouded by pollution, they finally realized that the Gangnam Style craze was just a passing gas... I mean, fad.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In Flagstaff, Arizona, the clear blue sky spread endlessly above the city, free from the haze of air pollution. People strolled down the streets with ease, taking in deep breaths of the refreshed air. As they lifted their heads, they found themselves chuckling at the sight of a large billboard displaying the words "Gangnam Style" alongside a comical illustration. With clear minds, they couldn't help but realize the absurdity of the once wildly popular trend, now seen as a passing fad.

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: [ Cute 2D animation ] and depicting this scene: In Flagstaff, Arizona, the clear blue sky spread endlessly above the city, free from the haze of air pollution. People strolled down the streets with ease, taking in deep breaths of the refreshed air. As they lifted their heads, they found themselves chuckling at the sight of a large billboard displaying the words "Gangnam Style" alongside a comical illustration. With clear minds, they couldn't help but realize the absurdity of the once wildly popular trend, now seen as a passing fad. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Prompt: Generate a cute 2D animation scene of a bustling street in Flagstaff, Arizona. The scene includes people happily strolling down the sidewalks under a clear blue sky, with whimsical billboards in the background showcasing amusing illustrations and the words "Gangnam Style." The animation should capture the cheerful atmosphere and the lighthearted humor of the passing trend, all in a charming and playful 2D style.

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

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

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how a decrease in Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona caused Gangnam Style (Google searches for 'Gangnam Style') to decrease.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Air Pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona: An Unlikely Muse for the 'Gangnam Style' Craze

The Journal of Eclectic Environmental Studies

Jan 2024

Reminder: This paper is AI-generated. Not real!
Quick note: This sequence is long and repetitive. That's how the prompt engineering works for this one. I manage the output in Python to format it into this PDF.




Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a 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 write titles and abstracts of goofy academic research papers.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, and add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona and Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Make the title seem clever.

Your research team used data from Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 and p < 0.01 for 2012 to 2023.

Please respond in this format (replace "Lorem ipsum dolor sit" with your title and abstract)

[[TITLE]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit

[[ABSTRACT]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit



ChatGPT:
[[TITLE]]
"Air Pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona: An Unlikely Muse for the 'Gangnam Style' Craze"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper investigates the curious connection between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the popularity of the iconic "Gangnam Style" song by Psy. Through the rigorous analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, a surprising correlation was revealed. Despite the crisp mountain air, there is a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 and a significant p-value of less than 0.01 between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" from 2012 to 2023. Our findings suggest that the whims of popular culture may indeed be impacted by environmental factors, and perhaps there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the influence of air quality on internet search behavior. This research adds a touch of levity to the serious topic of air pollution, reminding us that even in the world of academic inquiry, unexpected correlations can lead to amusing insights.


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

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona and Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Air Pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona: An Unlikely Muse for the 'Gangnam Style' Craze"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper investigates the curious connection between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the popularity of the iconic "Gangnam Style" song by Psy. Through the rigorous analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, a surprising correlation was revealed. Despite the crisp mountain air, there is a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 and a significant p-value of less than 0.01 between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" from 2012 to 2023. Our findings suggest that the whims of popular culture may indeed be impacted by environmental factors, and perhaps there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the influence of air quality on internet search behavior. This research adds a touch of levity to the serious topic of air pollution, reminding us that even in the world of academic inquiry, unexpected correlations can lead to amusing insights.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The study of air pollution and its effect on human behavior has long been a serious and solemn topic, prompting individuals to don face masks and seek refuge indoors. However, as we delve into the peculiar world of research, we sometimes stumble upon unexpected connections that prompt a raised eyebrow or even a chuckle. In this paper, we explore the unlikely relationship between Flagstaff, Arizona's air pollution levels and the worldwide sensation known as "Gangnam Style."

Flagstaff, a city known for its breathtaking mountain vistas and crisp, clean air, may not seem like the epicenter of a viral dance craze that swept the globe in 2012. Nevertheless, our analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends reveals a striking correlation that piques the curiosity. The connection between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" raises eyebrows and prompts the question: Could there be a hidden influence of air quality on global dance trends? Or are the residents of Flagstaff simply more inclined to find amusement in a catchy tune when the air is a bit hazy?

As we embark on this scholarly journey, filled with statistical analyses and ponderous musings, we invite our readers to join us in uncovering the mysterious dance between environmental factors and the whims of popular culture. For, after all, even in the serious realm of academic inquiry, there may be room for levity and unexpected surprises. Let us waltz, or perhaps gallop Gangnam style, into the world of unexpected correlations and discover the humor that lies within.


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 Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona and Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

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

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Then cite some social media posts you read that seem to be related.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Air Pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona: An Unlikely Muse for the 'Gangnam Style' Craze"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper investigates the curious connection between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the popularity of the iconic "Gangnam Style" song by Psy. Through the rigorous analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, a surprising correlation was revealed. Despite the crisp mountain air, there is a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 and a significant p-value of less than 0.01 between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" from 2012 to 2023. Our findings suggest that the whims of popular culture may indeed be impacted by environmental factors, and perhaps there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the influence of air quality on internet search behavior. This research adds a touch of levity to the serious topic of air pollution, reminding us that even in the world of academic inquiry, unexpected correlations can lead to amusing insights.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The study of air pollution and its effect on human behavior has long been a serious and solemn topic, prompting individuals to don face masks and seek refuge indoors. However, as we delve into the peculiar world of research, we sometimes stumble upon unexpected connections that prompt a raised eyebrow or even a chuckle. In this paper, we explore the unlikely relationship between Flagstaff, Arizona's air pollution levels and the worldwide sensation known as "Gangnam Style."
Flagstaff, a city known for its breathtaking mountain vistas and crisp, clean air, may not seem like the epicenter of a viral dance craze that swept the globe in 2012. Nevertheless, our analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends reveals a striking correlation that piques the curiosity. The connection between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" raises eyebrows and prompts the question: Could there be a hidden influence of air quality on global dance trends? Or are the residents of Flagstaff simply more inclined to find amusement in a catchy tune when the air is a bit hazy?
As we embark on this scholarly journey, filled with statistical analyses and ponderous musings, we invite our readers to join us in uncovering the mysterious dance between environmental factors and the whims of popular culture. For, after all, even in the serious realm of academic inquiry, there may be room for levity and unexpected surprises. Let us waltz, or perhaps gallop Gangnam style, into the world of unexpected correlations and discover the humor that lies within.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The exploration of the relationship between air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the worldwide obsession with "Gangnam Style" has yielded some unexpected but fascinating findings. In "Smith et al.'s study," the authors find a more serious tone, analyzing the impact of air pollution on respiratory health and overall well-being in communities. However, as we tiptoe further down the rabbit hole, we encounter some amusing tangents that may seem unrelated at first glance.

In "Doe's research," the authors delve into the effects of air pollution on environmental ecosystems and biodiversity, providing comprehensive analyses and thoughtful reflections. But as we meander through the scholarly landscape, we also encounter "Jones' investigation," which unexpectedly reveals the correlation between barometric pressure and trends in pop music. This unforeseen connection leads us to consider the potential impact of atmospheric phenomena on cultural preferences, provoking a chuckle and a raised eyebrow.

Turning to non-fiction literature, "The Air We Breathe" by Ian Colbeck provides a comprehensive overview of air pollution's impact on human health and the environment. As we veer into the realm of fiction, J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" unexpectedly offers insights into magical incantations and their potential impact on the atmospheric conditions that might influence popular dance phenomena. Additionally, the works of Douglas Adams, particularly "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy," humorously consider the improbable connections between air quality and intergalactic travel.

Furthermore, a recent social media post by an anonymous user humorously suggested that air pollution may indeed prompt individuals to seek out uplifting tunes, such as "Gangnam Style," to counteract the dreariness of hazy skies. This whimsical observation encourages us to consider the potential influence of environmental factors on the collective musical preferences, offering a lighthearted perspective on our research endeavor.


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 Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona and Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends . You used data from 2012 to 2023

Make up the research methods you don't know. Make them a bit goofy and convoluted.

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Air Pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona: An Unlikely Muse for the 'Gangnam Style' Craze"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper investigates the curious connection between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the popularity of the iconic "Gangnam Style" song by Psy. Through the rigorous analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, a surprising correlation was revealed. Despite the crisp mountain air, there is a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 and a significant p-value of less than 0.01 between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" from 2012 to 2023. Our findings suggest that the whims of popular culture may indeed be impacted by environmental factors, and perhaps there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the influence of air quality on internet search behavior. This research adds a touch of levity to the serious topic of air pollution, reminding us that even in the world of academic inquiry, unexpected correlations can lead to amusing insights.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The study of air pollution and its effect on human behavior has long been a serious and solemn topic, prompting individuals to don face masks and seek refuge indoors. However, as we delve into the peculiar world of research, we sometimes stumble upon unexpected connections that prompt a raised eyebrow or even a chuckle. In this paper, we explore the unlikely relationship between Flagstaff, Arizona's air pollution levels and the worldwide sensation known as "Gangnam Style."
Flagstaff, a city known for its breathtaking mountain vistas and crisp, clean air, may not seem like the epicenter of a viral dance craze that swept the globe in 2012. Nevertheless, our analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends reveals a striking correlation that piques the curiosity. The connection between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" raises eyebrows and prompts the question: Could there be a hidden influence of air quality on global dance trends? Or are the residents of Flagstaff simply more inclined to find amusement in a catchy tune when the air is a bit hazy?
As we embark on this scholarly journey, filled with statistical analyses and ponderous musings, we invite our readers to join us in uncovering the mysterious dance between environmental factors and the whims of popular culture. For, after all, even in the serious realm of academic inquiry, there may be room for levity and unexpected surprises. Let us waltz, or perhaps gallop Gangnam style, into the world of unexpected correlations and discover the humor that lies within.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

The data for this study was collected from 2012 to 2023 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends. This time frame allowed for a comprehensive analysis of air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the corresponding Google searches for "Gangnam Style." The research team initially donned their metaphorical detective caps and monocles to scour the internet for relevant datasets, but alas, they mainly relied on the trustworthy repositories of the EPA and the wacky world of Google Trends.

To begin our detective work, the air quality data from the EPA was obtained from various monitoring stations in Flagstaff. The concentrations of air pollutants, including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide, were diligently recorded. Meanwhile, the searches for the legendary "Gangnam Style" were tracked through Google Trends, providing insights into the ebb and flow of internet interest in this peculiar phenomenon. The data were then harmonized, like two unlikely dance partners, to create a comprehensive dataset for analysis.

The statistical analyses were conducted with the solemnity of a classical symphony, as we sought to unveil the potential harmony between air pollution and cyber whimsy. A Pearson correlation coefficient was calculated to measure the strength and direction of the linear relationship between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style." A p-value of less than 0.01 was selected as the threshold for statistical significance to ensure that our findings were not merely a whimsical fluke.

The research team also employed time series analysis techniques to detect any temporal patterns or seasonality in the data, as we dared to ponder whether air pollution levels might sway the rhythm of the internet's search habits. Through the meticulous application of autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models, the team endeavored to unravel the mysterious dance between air pollution and the viral echoes of "Oppa Gangnam Style."

Through this convoluted but necessary dance of data collection, harmonization, and analysis, we sought to bring to light the unforeseen correlations and unlikely bedfellows lurking in the realms of air quality and popular culture. While the rigor of our methods was unwavering, we could not help but dance on the edge of whimsy as we traversed this eccentric academic landscape.


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 Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona and Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends .

For the time period 2012 to 2023, you found a correlation 0.8740811, r-squared of 0.7640177, and p < 0.01.

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

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Air Pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona: An Unlikely Muse for the 'Gangnam Style' Craze"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper investigates the curious connection between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the popularity of the iconic "Gangnam Style" song by Psy. Through the rigorous analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, a surprising correlation was revealed. Despite the crisp mountain air, there is a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 and a significant p-value of less than 0.01 between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" from 2012 to 2023. Our findings suggest that the whims of popular culture may indeed be impacted by environmental factors, and perhaps there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the influence of air quality on internet search behavior. This research adds a touch of levity to the serious topic of air pollution, reminding us that even in the world of academic inquiry, unexpected correlations can lead to amusing insights.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The study of air pollution and its effect on human behavior has long been a serious and solemn topic, prompting individuals to don face masks and seek refuge indoors. However, as we delve into the peculiar world of research, we sometimes stumble upon unexpected connections that prompt a raised eyebrow or even a chuckle. In this paper, we explore the unlikely relationship between Flagstaff, Arizona's air pollution levels and the worldwide sensation known as "Gangnam Style."
Flagstaff, a city known for its breathtaking mountain vistas and crisp, clean air, may not seem like the epicenter of a viral dance craze that swept the globe in 2012. Nevertheless, our analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends reveals a striking correlation that piques the curiosity. The connection between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" raises eyebrows and prompts the question: Could there be a hidden influence of air quality on global dance trends? Or are the residents of Flagstaff simply more inclined to find amusement in a catchy tune when the air is a bit hazy?
As we embark on this scholarly journey, filled with statistical analyses and ponderous musings, we invite our readers to join us in uncovering the mysterious dance between environmental factors and the whims of popular culture. For, after all, even in the serious realm of academic inquiry, there may be room for levity and unexpected surprises. Let us waltz, or perhaps gallop Gangnam style, into the world of unexpected correlations and discover the humor that lies within.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The results of the analysis revealed a notable correlation between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and Google searches for "Gangnam Style." Over the time period from 2012 to 2023, a strong correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 was observed, with an r-squared of 0.7640177 and a p-value of less than 0.01. This indicates a robust and statistically significant relationship between the two variables.

With such compelling statistical evidence, one might wonder if the residents of Flagstaff were choreographing their dance moves in response to the air quality index. While we cannot definitively prove causation, the data certainly raises some tantalizing questions. Could it be that the citizens of Flagstaff, amidst the picturesque yet occasionally smog-filled scenery, found solace and inspiration in the buoyant beats of "Gangnam Style"? Or perhaps, as the air quality worsened, they turned to the infectious rhythm of Psy to lighten their spirits amid the haze.

Amidst the seriousness of air pollution research, this unexpected connection infuses a dash of lightheartedness into our scholarly pursuits. It beckons us to envision a world where environmental quality and internet memes intertwine, where Google searches mirror the ebb and flow of air pollutants, and where the dance floor becomes a stage for environmental expression.

Thus, the scatterplot in Figure 1 vividly illustrates the significant correlation between Flagstaff's air pollution levels and the worldwide phenomenon of "Gangnam Style." This visual representation underscores the robustness of the relationship, prompting us to consider the whimsical dance between ecological conditions and global cultural trends.

In conclusion, our findings offer a whimsical reminder that even the most unexpected correlations can yield insights that provoke both amusement and contemplation. As we revel in the merriment of scholarly discovery, we are reminded that perhaps, in the grand dance of life, the influential chords of popular culture resonate in the most surprising of places.


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 Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona and Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

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

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

[[TITLE]]
"Air Pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona: An Unlikely Muse for the 'Gangnam Style' Craze"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper investigates the curious connection between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the popularity of the iconic "Gangnam Style" song by Psy. Through the rigorous analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, a surprising correlation was revealed. Despite the crisp mountain air, there is a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 and a significant p-value of less than 0.01 between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" from 2012 to 2023. Our findings suggest that the whims of popular culture may indeed be impacted by environmental factors, and perhaps there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the influence of air quality on internet search behavior. This research adds a touch of levity to the serious topic of air pollution, reminding us that even in the world of academic inquiry, unexpected correlations can lead to amusing insights.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The exploration of the relationship between air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the worldwide obsession with "Gangnam Style" has yielded some unexpected but fascinating findings. In "Smith et al.'s study," the authors find a more serious tone, analyzing the impact of air pollution on respiratory health and overall well-being in communities. However, as we tiptoe further down the rabbit hole, we encounter some amusing tangents that may seem unrelated at first glance.
In "Doe's research," the authors delve into the effects of air pollution on environmental ecosystems and biodiversity, providing comprehensive analyses and thoughtful reflections. But as we meander through the scholarly landscape, we also encounter "Jones' investigation," which unexpectedly reveals the correlation between barometric pressure and trends in pop music. This unforeseen connection leads us to consider the potential impact of atmospheric phenomena on cultural preferences, provoking a chuckle and a raised eyebrow.
Turning to non-fiction literature, "The Air We Breathe" by Ian Colbeck provides a comprehensive overview of air pollution's impact on human health and the environment. As we veer into the realm of fiction, J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" unexpectedly offers insights into magical incantations and their potential impact on the atmospheric conditions that might influence popular dance phenomena. Additionally, the works of Douglas Adams, particularly "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy," humorously consider the improbable connections between air quality and intergalactic travel.
Furthermore, a recent social media post by an anonymous user humorously suggested that air pollution may indeed prompt individuals to seek out uplifting tunes, such as "Gangnam Style," to counteract the dreariness of hazy skies. This whimsical observation encourages us to consider the potential influence of environmental factors on the collective musical preferences, offering a lighthearted perspective on our research endeavor.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of the analysis revealed a notable correlation between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and Google searches for "Gangnam Style." Over the time period from 2012 to 2023, a strong correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 was observed, with an r-squared of 0.7640177 and a p-value of less than 0.01. This indicates a robust and statistically significant relationship between the two variables.
With such compelling statistical evidence, one might wonder if the residents of Flagstaff were choreographing their dance moves in response to the air quality index. While we cannot definitively prove causation, the data certainly raises some tantalizing questions. Could it be that the citizens of Flagstaff, amidst the picturesque yet occasionally smog-filled scenery, found solace and inspiration in the buoyant beats of "Gangnam Style"? Or perhaps, as the air quality worsened, they turned to the infectious rhythm of Psy to lighten their spirits amid the haze.
Amidst the seriousness of air pollution research, this unexpected connection infuses a dash of lightheartedness into our scholarly pursuits. It beckons us to envision a world where environmental quality and internet memes intertwine, where Google searches mirror the ebb and flow of air pollutants, and where the dance floor becomes a stage for environmental expression.
Thus, the scatterplot in Figure 1 vividly illustrates the significant correlation between Flagstaff's air pollution levels and the worldwide phenomenon of "Gangnam Style." This visual representation underscores the robustness of the relationship, prompting us to consider the whimsical dance between ecological conditions and global cultural trends.
In conclusion, our findings offer a whimsical reminder that even the most unexpected correlations can yield insights that provoke both amusement and contemplation. As we revel in the merriment of scholarly discovery, we are reminded that perhaps, in the grand dance of life, the influential chords of popular culture resonate in the most surprising of places.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The results of our study revealed a remarkable association between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and Google searches for "Gangnam Style." This unexpected connection adds a touch of whimsy to the typically somber field of air quality research. As we consider the possible mechanisms underlying this peculiar relationship, we must resist the temptation to leap to sweeping conclusions, lest we engage in an airborne folly of our own. However, we cannot help but mull over the potential implications of this unusual correlation.

Our data resonates with the findings of Smith et al., who, in a more serious tone, focused on the health impacts of air pollution. While our investigation may initially seem to dance on the periphery of the scholarly landscape, it nonetheless supports the notion that environmental factors can exert unexpected influences on human behavior. In a similar vein, Jones' exploration of the correlation between barometric pressure and pop music trends unexpectedly reverberates with our findings, shedding light on the potential interconnectedness of atmospheric conditions and cultural phenomena. Who would have thought that the buoyant rhythms of "Gangnam Style" could be entwined with the delicate dance of air molecules in Flagstaff's atmosphere?

As our scatterplot illustrates, the tight embrace between air pollution and "Gangnam Style" searches cannot be dismissed as mere happenstance. The robust correlation coefficient and p-value substantiate the strength of this peculiar relationship, compelling us to contemplate the interplay between environmental quality and collective musical preferences. Our findings echo the humorously suggested notion that individuals may turn to uplifting tunes to counteract the gloominess of hazy skies, sparking a lighthearted but intriguing line of inquiry.

While our study cannot conclusively establish causality, it serves as a poignant reminder of the serendipitous connections that can emerge in the realm of scholarly inquiry. In the melodious interplay of environmental conditions and global cultural trends, we are reminded that research can uncover unexpected correlations that titillate the intellect and delight the spirit. After all, as we waltz through the labyrinth of academia, we must not overlook the acoustical reflexes of the societal zeitgeist, nor the whimsical echoes of the environment in our collective consciousness.


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 Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona and Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
"Air Pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona: An Unlikely Muse for the 'Gangnam Style' Craze"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper investigates the curious connection between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the popularity of the iconic "Gangnam Style" song by Psy. Through the rigorous analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, a surprising correlation was revealed. Despite the crisp mountain air, there is a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 and a significant p-value of less than 0.01 between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" from 2012 to 2023. Our findings suggest that the whims of popular culture may indeed be impacted by environmental factors, and perhaps there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the influence of air quality on internet search behavior. This research adds a touch of levity to the serious topic of air pollution, reminding us that even in the world of academic inquiry, unexpected correlations can lead to amusing insights.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The study of air pollution and its effect on human behavior has long been a serious and solemn topic, prompting individuals to don face masks and seek refuge indoors. However, as we delve into the peculiar world of research, we sometimes stumble upon unexpected connections that prompt a raised eyebrow or even a chuckle. In this paper, we explore the unlikely relationship between Flagstaff, Arizona's air pollution levels and the worldwide sensation known as "Gangnam Style."
Flagstaff, a city known for its breathtaking mountain vistas and crisp, clean air, may not seem like the epicenter of a viral dance craze that swept the globe in 2012. Nevertheless, our analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends reveals a striking correlation that piques the curiosity. The connection between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" raises eyebrows and prompts the question: Could there be a hidden influence of air quality on global dance trends? Or are the residents of Flagstaff simply more inclined to find amusement in a catchy tune when the air is a bit hazy?
As we embark on this scholarly journey, filled with statistical analyses and ponderous musings, we invite our readers to join us in uncovering the mysterious dance between environmental factors and the whims of popular culture. For, after all, even in the serious realm of academic inquiry, there may be room for levity and unexpected surprises. Let us waltz, or perhaps gallop Gangnam style, into the world of unexpected correlations and discover the humor that lies within.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of the analysis revealed a notable correlation between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and Google searches for "Gangnam Style." Over the time period from 2012 to 2023, a strong correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 was observed, with an r-squared of 0.7640177 and a p-value of less than 0.01. This indicates a robust and statistically significant relationship between the two variables.
With such compelling statistical evidence, one might wonder if the residents of Flagstaff were choreographing their dance moves in response to the air quality index. While we cannot definitively prove causation, the data certainly raises some tantalizing questions. Could it be that the citizens of Flagstaff, amidst the picturesque yet occasionally smog-filled scenery, found solace and inspiration in the buoyant beats of "Gangnam Style"? Or perhaps, as the air quality worsened, they turned to the infectious rhythm of Psy to lighten their spirits amid the haze.
Amidst the seriousness of air pollution research, this unexpected connection infuses a dash of lightheartedness into our scholarly pursuits. It beckons us to envision a world where environmental quality and internet memes intertwine, where Google searches mirror the ebb and flow of air pollutants, and where the dance floor becomes a stage for environmental expression.
Thus, the scatterplot in Figure 1 vividly illustrates the significant correlation between Flagstaff's air pollution levels and the worldwide phenomenon of "Gangnam Style." This visual representation underscores the robustness of the relationship, prompting us to consider the whimsical dance between ecological conditions and global cultural trends.
In conclusion, our findings offer a whimsical reminder that even the most unexpected correlations can yield insights that provoke both amusement and contemplation. As we revel in the merriment of scholarly discovery, we are reminded that perhaps, in the grand dance of life, the influential chords of popular culture resonate in the most surprising of places.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our research has delved into the unexpected connection between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the global phenomenon of "Gangnam Style." While this correlation may seem as unlikely as doing the Gangnam Style dance at a solemn scientific conference, the robust statistical evidence cannot be ignored. The significant correlation coefficient and p-value suggest that there is more to this relationship than meets the eye, much like the enigmatic allure of Psy's iconic horse-riding dance.

Our findings lead us to ponder whether the residents of Flagstaff, amidst the occasional smog, sought solace and amusement in the infectious beats of "Gangnam Style." It seems like they were not only breathing in air pollutants but also the catchy melody of this K-pop sensation. As the air quality index fluctuated, perhaps the search for "Gangnam Style" offered a breath of fresh air, albeit in the virtual realm.

The scatterplot in Figure 1 vividly illustrates the significant correlation and serves as a whimsical visual representation of this unexpected relationship. It prompts us to contemplate the dance between environmental conditions and global cultural trends, much like an elaborate choreography performed by nature and society.

The unexpected correlation we have uncovered offers a lighthearted glimpse into the intertwining of ecological factors and internet memes. It reminds us that even in the serious realm of air pollution research, there may be room for levity and unexpected surprises. After all, as researchers, it is our duty to investigate curious connections, even if they lead us to the dancefloor of statistical analysis.

In closing, our research has shed light on the unexpected influence of air quality on global cultural trends. No more research is needed in this area, as we have undoubtedly hit upon the air pollution jackpot of delightfully peculiar correlations. With that said, let's hope for cleaner air and catchier tunes, and who knows, perhaps a sequel paper investigating the link between smog and the Macarena.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of academic journals. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding research, scientific, or academic journal that would publish a paper entited Air Pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona: An Unlikely Muse for the 'Gangnam Style' Craze. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Eclectic Environmental Studies


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of nonprofit research organizations and associations. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding nonprofit, academic, or scientific association or organization that would sponsor research that resulted in a paper entited Air Pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona: An Unlikely Muse for the 'Gangnam Style' Craze. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Association for Quirky Environmental Studies (AQES)


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled Air Pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona: An Unlikely Muse for the 'Gangnam Style' Craze with an abstract of This paper investigates the curious connection between air pollution levels in Flagstaff, Arizona, and the popularity of the iconic "Gangnam Style" song by Psy. Through the rigorous analysis of data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, a surprising correlation was revealed. Despite the crisp mountain air, there is a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8740811 and a significant p-value of less than 0.01 between air pollution levels and Google searches for "Gangnam Style" from 2012 to 2023. Our findings suggest that the whims of popular culture may indeed be impacted by environmental factors, and perhaps there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the influence of air quality on internet search behavior. This research adds a touch of levity to the serious topic of air pollution, reminding us that even in the world of academic inquiry, unexpected correlations can lead to amusing insights.

ChatGPT:

Flagstaff, Arizona, air pollution, Gangnam Style, Psy, Environmental Protection Agency, Google Trends, correlation coefficient, p-value, internet search behavior, air quality, popular culture, environmental factors

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



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Data details

Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona
Detailed data title: Percentage of days with air quality at 'unhealthy for sensitive groups' or worse in Flagstaff, AZ
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
See what else correlates with Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona

Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'
Detailed data title: Relative volume of Google searches for 'Gangnam Style' (Worldwide, without quotes)
Source: Google Trends
Additional Info: Relative search volume (not absolute numbers)

See what else correlates with Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'

Correlation r = 0.8740811 (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 = 0.7640177 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 76.4% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Google searches for 'Gangnam Style') is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona) over the 12 years from 2012 through 2023.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 0.0002011. 0.0002010548746012983300000000
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme. More specifically the p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme if we had only tested one pair of variables one time.

But I am a p-villain. I absolutely did not test only one pair of variables one time. I correlated hundreds of millions of pairs of variables. I threw boatloads of data into an industrial-sized blender to find this correlation.

Who is going to stop me? p-value reporting doesn't require me to report how many calculations I had to go through in order to find a low p-value!
On average, you will find a correaltion as strong as 0.87 in 0.02011% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 4,974 random variables Which I absolutely did.
with the same 11 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 11 because we have two variables measured over a period of 12 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.

[ 0.6, 0.96 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
The confidence interval is an estimate the range of the value of the correlation coefficient, using the correlation itself as an input. The values are meant to be the low and high end of the correlation coefficient with 95% confidence.

This one is a bit more complciated than the other calculations, but I include it because many people have been pushing for confidence intervals instead of p-value calculations (for example: NEJM. However, if you are dredging data, you can reliably find yourself in the 5%. That's my goal!


All values for the years included above: If I were being very sneaky, I could trim years from the beginning or end of the datasets to increase the correlation on some pairs of variables. I don't do that because there are already plenty of correlations in my database without monkeying with the years.

Still, sometimes one of the variables has more years of data available than the other. This page only shows the overlapping years. To see all the years, click on "See what else correlates with..." link above.
201220132014201520162017201820192020202120222023
Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona (Bad air quality days)4.098360.8241761.400561.0958900.2739730.8219180000.2739730.3663
Google searches for 'Gangnam Style' (Rel. search volume)36.920.33334.666672.833331.333331111111




Why this works

  1. Data dredging: I have 25,153 variables in my database. I compare all these variables against each other to find ones that randomly match up. That's 632,673,409 correlation calculations! This is called “data dredging.” Instead of starting with a hypothesis and testing it, I instead abused the data to see what correlations shake out. It’s a dangerous way to go about analysis, because any sufficiently large dataset will yield strong correlations completely at random.
  2. Lack of causal connection: There is probably Because these pages are automatically generated, it's possible that the two variables you are viewing are in fact causually related. I take steps to prevent the obvious ones from showing on the site (I don't let data about the weather in one city correlate with the weather in a neighboring city, for example), but sometimes they still pop up. If they are related, cool! You found a loophole.
    no direct connection between these variables, despite what the AI says above. This is exacerbated by the fact that I used "Years" as the base variable. Lots of things happen in a year that are not related to each other! Most studies would use something like "one person" in stead of "one year" to be the "thing" studied.
  3. Observations not independent: For many variables, sequential years are not independent of each other. If a population of people is continuously doing something every day, there is no reason to think they would suddenly change how they are doing that thing on January 1. A simple Personally I don't find any p-value calculation to be 'simple,' but you know what I mean.
    p-value calculation does not take this into account, so mathematically it appears less probable than it really is.




Try it yourself

You can calculate the values on this page on your own! Try running the Python code to see the calculation results. Step 1: Download and install Python on your computer.

Step 2: Open a plaintext editor like Notepad and paste the code below into it.

Step 3: Save the file as "calculate_correlation.py" in a place you will remember, like your desktop. Copy the file location to your clipboard. On Windows, you can right-click the file and click "Properties," and then copy what comes after "Location:" As an example, on my computer the location is "C:\Users\tyler\Desktop"

Step 4: Open a command line window. For example, by pressing start and typing "cmd" and them pressing enter.

Step 5: Install the required modules by typing "pip install numpy", then pressing enter, then typing "pip install scipy", then pressing enter.

Step 6: Navigate to the location where you saved the Python file by using the "cd" command. For example, I would type "cd C:\Users\tyler\Desktop" and push enter.

Step 7: Run the Python script by typing "python calculate_correlation.py"

If you run into any issues, I suggest asking ChatGPT to walk you through installing Python and running the code below on your system. Try this question:

"Walk me through installing Python on my computer to run a script that uses scipy and numpy. Go step-by-step and ask me to confirm before moving on. Start by asking me questions about my operating system so that you know how to proceed. Assume I want the simplest installation with the latest version of Python and that I do not currently have any of the necessary elements installed. Remember to only give me one step per response and confirm I have done it before proceeding."


# These modules make it easier to perform the calculation
import numpy as np
from scipy import stats

# We'll define a function that we can call to return the correlation calculations
def calculate_correlation(array1, array2):

    # Calculate Pearson correlation coefficient and p-value
    correlation, p_value = stats.pearsonr(array1, array2)

    # Calculate R-squared as the square of the correlation coefficient
    r_squared = correlation**2

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([4.09836,0.824176,1.40056,1.09589,0,0.273973,0.821918,0,0,0,0.273973,0.3663,])
array_2 = np.array([36.9,20.3333,4.66667,2.83333,1.33333,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,])
array_1_name = "Air pollution in Flagstaff, Arizona"
array_2_name = "Google searches for 'Gangnam Style'"

# Perform the calculation
print(f"Calculating the correlation between {array_1_name} and {array_2_name}...")
correlation, r_squared, p_value = calculate_correlation(array_1, array_2)

# Print the results
print("Correlation Coefficient:", correlation)
print("R-squared:", r_squared)
print("P-value:", p_value)



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You do not need to attribute "the spurious correlations website," and you don't even need to link here if you don't want to. I don't gain anything from pageviews. There are no ads on this site, there is nothing for sale, and I am not for hire.

For the record, I am just one person. Tyler Vigen, he/him/his. I do have degrees, but they should not go after my name unless you want to annoy my wife. If that is your goal, then go ahead and cite me as "Tyler Vigen, A.A. A.A.S. B.A. J.D." Otherwise it is just "Tyler Vigen."

When spoken, my last name is pronounced "vegan," like I don't eat meat.

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Correlation ID: 3208 · Black Variable ID: 20626 · Red Variable ID: 1442
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