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Spurious correlation #3,220 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Popularity of the first name Marilyn and the second variable is The number of economists in Hawaii.  The chart goes from 2005 to 2018, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

As the name Marilyn gained popularity, more and more parents were subconsciously influenced to name their children after the iconic Marilyn Monroe. This led to a surge in individuals pursuing careers in the entertainment industry. As Hawaii became known for its budding population of Marilyns, it inadvertently sparked a demand for economists to analyze the potential economic impact of this Hollywood connection on the local economy. This ultimately led to an unexpected influx of economists in Hawaii, all thanks to the magnetic appeal of the name Marilyn and its indirect link to the glamour of Tinseltown. While this may sound like a far-fetched scenario, it's a testament to the unforeseen ways in which seemingly unrelated trends can shape the occupational landscape.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: [ Symbolism ] Generate an image of a vibrant Hawaiian landscape with a prominent wave-like formation emerging from the sea. Amidst the waves, a group of professional-looking women, all named Marilyn, stand on surfboards with determination and focus. The wave and the women symbolize the rising popularity of the name "Marilyn" that has brought a surge of aspiring economists to the Hawaiian island. In the background, a swaying palm tree stands tall, with a subtle glimmer reflecting the economic theories and statistical analyses that these Marilyns embody. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.
This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: Popularity of the first name Marilyn and The number of economists in Hawaii. 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: Surrealism A photo-realistic image Brutalism Symbolism Photorealism
ChatGPT: Symbolism

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both Popularity of the first name Marilyn and The number of economists in Hawaii, in the following situation: Because as the name Marilyn gained popularity, more parents subconsciously imbued their offspring with economic prowess, leading to a surge in the number of budding economists in Hawaii. It's a classic case of the "Marilyn Effect" – where naming trends impact career choices. The name exudes financial acumen, which seeps into the subconscious, compelling individuals to dive into the world of economics. It's all about the name game, and Marilyn is clearly the winning ticket to prosperity – at least in the land of pineapples and aloha spirit.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: Amidst the tropical backdrop of Hawaii, a wave of young professionals bearing the name Marilyn fills the island. As the popularity of the name Marilyn rises, so does the number of aspiring economists. A group of Marilyns, with a twinkle of financial acumen in their eyes, gather under a swaying palm tree, their minds teeming with economic theories and statistical analysis, emblematic of the "Marilyn Effect" that has swept through the aloha-drenched state.

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: [ Symbolism ] and depicting this scene: Amidst the tropical backdrop of Hawaii, a wave of young professionals bearing the name Marilyn fills the island. As the popularity of the name Marilyn rises, so does the number of aspiring economists. A group of Marilyns, with a twinkle of financial acumen in their eyes, gather under a swaying palm tree, their minds teeming with economic theories and statistical analysis, emblematic of the "Marilyn Effect" that has swept through the aloha-drenched state. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: [ Symbolism ] Generate an image of a vibrant Hawaiian landscape with a prominent wave-like formation emerging from the sea. Amidst the waves, a group of professional-looking women, all named Marilyn, stand on surfboards with determination and focus. The wave and the women symbolize the rising popularity of the name "Marilyn" that has brought a surge of aspiring economists to the Hawaiian island. In the background, a swaying palm tree stands tall, with a subtle glimmer reflecting the economic theories and statistical analyses that these Marilyns embody.

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

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

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

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
The Marilyn Effect: A 'Name-worthy' Correlation Between Popularity of the First Name Marilyn and the Number of Economists in Hawaii

The Journal of Quirky Social Science Research

Jan 2024

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




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

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Marilyn and The number of economists in Hawaii. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Make the title punny if you can come up with clever pun. If not, just make it sound clever.

Your research team used data from US Social Security Administration and Bureau of Larbor Statistics to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.9275355 and p < 0.01 for 2005 to 2018.

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]]
"The Marilyn Effect: A 'Name-worthy' Correlation Between Popularity of the First Name Marilyn and the Number of Economists in Hawaii"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the intriguing and, dare I say, "name-worthy" correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the scenic state of Hawaii. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2005 to 2018, we conducted a comprehensive analysis that unveiled an unexpectedly strong correlation coefficient of 0.9275355 at a significance level of p < 0.01.

It all started with an innocent curiosity, as many things do. In our pursuit of understanding the peculiar phenomena in the world of economics, we stumbled upon the rising popularity of the name Marilyn. Much to our surprise, this exploration led us to something even more unexpected – a peculiar link between the number of economists in the exotic land of Hawaii and the prevalence of the name Marilyn. One might say it was a "Marilyn-ious" discovery.

Our findings not only raised eyebrows but also prompted a plethora of questions. Is there something about the name Marilyn that sparks an affinity for the complex world of economics? Or perhaps, economists in Hawaii have an unspoken admiration for the name Marilyn. One thing is for certain – this correlation warranted further investigation and provided a light-hearted reminder that unexpected connections often lead to intriguing insights.

So, brace yourselves for a journey through the realms of nomenclature and economics as we unravel the "Marilyn Effect" and its implications. After all, as economists, we are simply "Marilyning" the curiosity-driven paths to knowledge.


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

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Marilyn and The number of economists in Hawaii. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"The Marilyn Effect: A 'Name-worthy' Correlation Between Popularity of the First Name Marilyn and the Number of Economists in Hawaii"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the intriguing and, dare I say, "name-worthy" correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the scenic state of Hawaii. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2005 to 2018, we conducted a comprehensive analysis that unveiled an unexpectedly strong correlation coefficient of 0.9275355 at a significance level of p < 0.01.

It all started with an innocent curiosity, as many things do. In our pursuit of understanding the peculiar phenomena in the world of economics, we stumbled upon the rising popularity of the name Marilyn. Much to our surprise, this exploration led us to something even more unexpected – a peculiar link between the number of economists in the exotic land of Hawaii and the prevalence of the name Marilyn. One might say it was a "Marilyn-ious" discovery.

Our findings not only raised eyebrows but also prompted a plethora of questions. Is there something about the name Marilyn that sparks an affinity for the complex world of economics? Or perhaps, economists in Hawaii have an unspoken admiration for the name Marilyn. One thing is for certain – this correlation warranted further investigation and provided a light-hearted reminder that unexpected connections often lead to intriguing insights.

So, brace yourselves for a journey through the realms of nomenclature and economics as we unravel the "Marilyn Effect" and its implications. After all, as economists, we are simply "Marilyning" the curiosity-driven paths to knowledge.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

Names, like economic theories, often carry a certain weight and influence in our lives. From Adam Smith to John Maynard Keynes, the legacy of renowned economists has left an indelible mark on the field of economics. Similarly, individuals' names often shape perceptions and expectations, bearing an undeniable impact on their lives. Coincidentally, these two seemingly unrelated entities converge in our study, as we present the curious correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the tropical paradise of Hawaii.

As we embark on this journey of discovery, we cannot help but appreciate the serendipity of uncovering the "Marilyn effect." It's almost as if the universe is whispering, "Don't underestimate the influence of a name. It just might be the key to unlocking unexpected connections in the world of data and analysis." Oh, the pun-derful mysteries of statistical relationships!

Across the vast ocean of data, our keen eyes detected a peculiar trend – a budding association between the frequency of the name Marilyn and the density of economists in Hawaii. Its significance couldn't be brushed off as mere coincidence; rather, it beckoned us to delve deeper and decipher the underlying forces at play. One might even say we were "econo-mystified" by the initial findings.

Through rigorous statistical analysis, we uncovered a correlation coefficient so strikingly potent that it left us exclaiming, "Marilyn me surprised!" With a level of significance matching the weight of a heavyweight champion of the world, this correlation was not to be taken lightly – pun intended.


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

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Marilyn and The number of economists in Hawaii. 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 name some movies that you watched that are tangentially related to the topic.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"The Marilyn Effect: A 'Name-worthy' Correlation Between Popularity of the First Name Marilyn and the Number of Economists in Hawaii"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the intriguing and, dare I say, "name-worthy" correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the scenic state of Hawaii. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2005 to 2018, we conducted a comprehensive analysis that unveiled an unexpectedly strong correlation coefficient of 0.9275355 at a significance level of p < 0.01.

It all started with an innocent curiosity, as many things do. In our pursuit of understanding the peculiar phenomena in the world of economics, we stumbled upon the rising popularity of the name Marilyn. Much to our surprise, this exploration led us to something even more unexpected – a peculiar link between the number of economists in the exotic land of Hawaii and the prevalence of the name Marilyn. One might say it was a "Marilyn-ious" discovery.

Our findings not only raised eyebrows but also prompted a plethora of questions. Is there something about the name Marilyn that sparks an affinity for the complex world of economics? Or perhaps, economists in Hawaii have an unspoken admiration for the name Marilyn. One thing is for certain – this correlation warranted further investigation and provided a light-hearted reminder that unexpected connections often lead to intriguing insights.

So, brace yourselves for a journey through the realms of nomenclature and economics as we unravel the "Marilyn Effect" and its implications. After all, as economists, we are simply "Marilyning" the curiosity-driven paths to knowledge.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
Names, like economic theories, often carry a certain weight and influence in our lives. From Adam Smith to John Maynard Keynes, the legacy of renowned economists has left an indelible mark on the field of economics. Similarly, individuals' names often shape perceptions and expectations, bearing an undeniable impact on their lives. Coincidentally, these two seemingly unrelated entities converge in our study, as we present the curious correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the tropical paradise of Hawaii.
As we embark on this journey of discovery, we cannot help but appreciate the serendipity of uncovering the "Marilyn effect." It's almost as if the universe is whispering, "Don't underestimate the influence of a name. It just might be the key to unlocking unexpected connections in the world of data and analysis." Oh, the pun-derful mysteries of statistical relationships!
Across the vast ocean of data, our keen eyes detected a peculiar trend – a budding association between the frequency of the name Marilyn and the density of economists in Hawaii. Its significance couldn't be brushed off as mere coincidence; rather, it beckoned us to delve deeper and decipher the underlying forces at play. One might even say we were "econo-mystified" by the initial findings.
Through rigorous statistical analysis, we uncovered a correlation coefficient so strikingly potent that it left us exclaiming, "Marilyn me surprised!" With a level of significance matching the weight of a heavyweight champion of the world, this correlation was not to be taken lightly – pun intended.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The linkage between names and their influence on destiny has captivated both scholars and laymen alike for centuries. Smith and Doe (2000) explored the impact of naming trends on career choices, touching on the subtle psychological effects of nomenclature. This lighthearted yet insightful work paved the way for our investigation into the unexpected connection between the frequency of the name Marilyn and the abundance of economists in Hawaii.

Speaking of economists, Jones (2005) delved into the geographical distribution of economists across the United States. While their research did not explicitly scrutinize the influence of names on the profession, it laid the groundwork for our inquisitive exploration into the "Marilyn Effect" in the picturesque setting of Hawaii.

Now, turning away from traditional economic literature, let's consider the works that touch upon the fascinating interplay between names and personal destinies. In "Freakonomics" by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner, the authors shed light on the unexpected and quirky influences on human behavior, offering a fresh perspective on economic phenomena. Similarly, "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell provides insights into the power of rapid cognition and the implicit factors that shape decision-making, aspects that may hold relevance in our investigation into the Marilyn phenomenon.

Shifting gears towards fictional works with tangential connections, "Economics in One Lesson" by Henry Hazlitt, though a serious economic treatise, does carry a title that beckons us to ponder the potential implications of naming tendencies in the realm of economics, albeit in a tongue-in-cheek manner. On a more light-hearted note, "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman explores the intricacies of individual identity, prompting contemplation on the subtle yet profound impacts of names on personal trajectories.

As our investigation delves into unforeseen correlations, we can't help but draw parallels with cinematic experiences that have left us pondering unexpected connections. The films "A Beautiful Mind," "The Big Short," and "Moneyball" have, in their own ways, prodded our fascination with the unpredictable intersections of human behavior, numbers, and name-worthy destinies. Much like our journey into the Marilyn Effect, these cinematic ventures have reminded us that in the world of economics, as well as in life itself, unexpected correlations may lurk around every statistical corner.

In the world of empirical research, it is crucial to remain open to unexpected connections, even if they may seem amusing or improbable at first glance. After all, as we navigate through the whimsical world of data analysis, a good ol' dad joke may just be the unexpected key to unlocking profound insights into societal phenomena. And so, with a pun-tastic spirit in mind, we venture forth to unravel the enigmatic 'Marilyn Effect', never underestimating the "name-worthy" impact it may hold in the world of economics.


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

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Marilyn and The number of economists in Hawaii. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from US Social Security Administration and Bureau of Larbor Statistics . You used data from 2005 to 2018

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

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"The Marilyn Effect: A 'Name-worthy' Correlation Between Popularity of the First Name Marilyn and the Number of Economists in Hawaii"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the intriguing and, dare I say, "name-worthy" correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the scenic state of Hawaii. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2005 to 2018, we conducted a comprehensive analysis that unveiled an unexpectedly strong correlation coefficient of 0.9275355 at a significance level of p < 0.01.

It all started with an innocent curiosity, as many things do. In our pursuit of understanding the peculiar phenomena in the world of economics, we stumbled upon the rising popularity of the name Marilyn. Much to our surprise, this exploration led us to something even more unexpected – a peculiar link between the number of economists in the exotic land of Hawaii and the prevalence of the name Marilyn. One might say it was a "Marilyn-ious" discovery.

Our findings not only raised eyebrows but also prompted a plethora of questions. Is there something about the name Marilyn that sparks an affinity for the complex world of economics? Or perhaps, economists in Hawaii have an unspoken admiration for the name Marilyn. One thing is for certain – this correlation warranted further investigation and provided a light-hearted reminder that unexpected connections often lead to intriguing insights.

So, brace yourselves for a journey through the realms of nomenclature and economics as we unravel the "Marilyn Effect" and its implications. After all, as economists, we are simply "Marilyning" the curiosity-driven paths to knowledge.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
Names, like economic theories, often carry a certain weight and influence in our lives. From Adam Smith to John Maynard Keynes, the legacy of renowned economists has left an indelible mark on the field of economics. Similarly, individuals' names often shape perceptions and expectations, bearing an undeniable impact on their lives. Coincidentally, these two seemingly unrelated entities converge in our study, as we present the curious correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the tropical paradise of Hawaii.
As we embark on this journey of discovery, we cannot help but appreciate the serendipity of uncovering the "Marilyn effect." It's almost as if the universe is whispering, "Don't underestimate the influence of a name. It just might be the key to unlocking unexpected connections in the world of data and analysis." Oh, the pun-derful mysteries of statistical relationships!
Across the vast ocean of data, our keen eyes detected a peculiar trend – a budding association between the frequency of the name Marilyn and the density of economists in Hawaii. Its significance couldn't be brushed off as mere coincidence; rather, it beckoned us to delve deeper and decipher the underlying forces at play. One might even say we were "econo-mystified" by the initial findings.
Through rigorous statistical analysis, we uncovered a correlation coefficient so strikingly potent that it left us exclaiming, "Marilyn me surprised!" With a level of significance matching the weight of a heavyweight champion of the world, this correlation was not to be taken lightly – pun intended.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To unravel the enigmatic "Marilyn Effect," our research team embarked on an exhilarating journey through the realms of data collection and statistical analysis. We harnessed the power of information from the US Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, extracting data on the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in Hawaii from the years 2005 to 2018. It was a bit like trying to catch a wave in a sea of numbers – exhilarating, occasionally disorienting, but ultimately rewarding.

We employed a combination of both deterministic and probabilistic sampling methods, akin to performing a delicate dance between predictability and randomness. This approach allowed us to capture the holistic essence of the data, ensuring that no "Marilyngering" biases tainted the integrity of our analysis. After all, we wanted our findings to be as crisp and clear as the Hawaiian sky, without a cloud of doubt in sight.

Once we amassed the abundance of data, we dived headfirst into the riveting waters of statistical analysis, employing a robust array of methods including correlation analysis, regression modeling, and time series analysis. It was like charting a course through treacherous statistical seas, armed with nothing but our wits and the proverbial compass of scientific curiosity.

Our thorough analysis uncovered a correlation coefficient so strikingly potent that it left us exclaiming, "Marilyn me surprised!" The correlation coefficient, clocking in at an impressive 0.9275355, dazzled our senses and sparked a fervent determination to investigate further. The level of significance, holding strong at p < 0.01, further fortified our resolve to plumb the depths of this intriguing relationship between a name and an enthralling profession.

In our endeavor to reveal the "Marilyn Effect" in all its splendor, we conducted numerous robustness tests and sensitivity analyses to ensure the resilience of our findings. It was like fortifying a grand scientific castle against the relentless waves of skepticism, skeptics being the occasional (but essential) storms in the scientific seas. The results held firm, standing as a beacon of veracity amidst the tumultuous tides of scientific inquiry.

Having successfully navigated the riveting labyrinth of data collection and statistical analysis, we emerged victorious with a newfound understanding of the "Marilyn Effect" and its enthralling implications. Our findings not only shed light on this peculiar correlation but also inspired a deeper contemplation of the subtle influences that interlace our lives in the grand tapestry of statistical relationships.

In hindsight, it's surprising how much one can learn from a name – even a name as seemingly unassuming as Marilyn. It serves as a testament to the vast, uncharted territories that lie within the universe of data and analysis, whispering tales of unexpected connections and pun-derful mysteries, waiting to be uncovered.

We're all "econo-mystified" by the inexplicable "Marilyn Effect," and as the saying goes, "When life gives you data, make statistical lemonade!"


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

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Marilyn and The number of economists in Hawaii. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

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

For the time period 2005 to 2018, you found a correlation 0.9275355, r-squared of 0.8603221, and p < 0.01.

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

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"The Marilyn Effect: A 'Name-worthy' Correlation Between Popularity of the First Name Marilyn and the Number of Economists in Hawaii"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the intriguing and, dare I say, "name-worthy" correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the scenic state of Hawaii. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2005 to 2018, we conducted a comprehensive analysis that unveiled an unexpectedly strong correlation coefficient of 0.9275355 at a significance level of p < 0.01.

It all started with an innocent curiosity, as many things do. In our pursuit of understanding the peculiar phenomena in the world of economics, we stumbled upon the rising popularity of the name Marilyn. Much to our surprise, this exploration led us to something even more unexpected – a peculiar link between the number of economists in the exotic land of Hawaii and the prevalence of the name Marilyn. One might say it was a "Marilyn-ious" discovery.

Our findings not only raised eyebrows but also prompted a plethora of questions. Is there something about the name Marilyn that sparks an affinity for the complex world of economics? Or perhaps, economists in Hawaii have an unspoken admiration for the name Marilyn. One thing is for certain – this correlation warranted further investigation and provided a light-hearted reminder that unexpected connections often lead to intriguing insights.

So, brace yourselves for a journey through the realms of nomenclature and economics as we unravel the "Marilyn Effect" and its implications. After all, as economists, we are simply "Marilyning" the curiosity-driven paths to knowledge.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
Names, like economic theories, often carry a certain weight and influence in our lives. From Adam Smith to John Maynard Keynes, the legacy of renowned economists has left an indelible mark on the field of economics. Similarly, individuals' names often shape perceptions and expectations, bearing an undeniable impact on their lives. Coincidentally, these two seemingly unrelated entities converge in our study, as we present the curious correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the tropical paradise of Hawaii.
As we embark on this journey of discovery, we cannot help but appreciate the serendipity of uncovering the "Marilyn effect." It's almost as if the universe is whispering, "Don't underestimate the influence of a name. It just might be the key to unlocking unexpected connections in the world of data and analysis." Oh, the pun-derful mysteries of statistical relationships!
Across the vast ocean of data, our keen eyes detected a peculiar trend – a budding association between the frequency of the name Marilyn and the density of economists in Hawaii. Its significance couldn't be brushed off as mere coincidence; rather, it beckoned us to delve deeper and decipher the underlying forces at play. One might even say we were "econo-mystified" by the initial findings.
Through rigorous statistical analysis, we uncovered a correlation coefficient so strikingly potent that it left us exclaiming, "Marilyn me surprised!" With a level of significance matching the weight of a heavyweight champion of the world, this correlation was not to be taken lightly – pun intended.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The results of our investigation revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the frequency of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in Hawaii for the period 2005 to 2018. The correlation coefficient clocked in at an impressive 0.9275355, with an r-squared value of 0.8603221, and a p-value of less than 0.01. If this correlation were a superhero, it would definitely be "Marv-elous Marilyn" swooping in to save the day!

The scatterplot in Figure 1 visually represents the robust relationship between the two variables, showcasing a trend so compelling that even the most stoic of statisticians couldn't help but appreciate its striking elegance. It's as if the data points themselves were whispering, "We're not just dots; we're the stars of this statistical show!"

Now, before you start thinking, "How on earth could the name Marilyn have anything to do with the number of economists in Hawaii?" let's address the elephant in the room – or shall we say, the "economist" in the tropics. It's a valid question, and one that had us scratching our heads too. But as they say, "Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back – with a treasure trove of data!"

The sheer strength of this correlation left us feeling both "econowise" and "name-inspired." It's almost as if the name Marilyn holds a certain aura that draws individuals to the captivating world of economics, or perhaps economists in Hawaii have an unspoken affinity for the name. We have to admit, this unexpected connection took us by surprise – much like a great pun!

The implications of this correlation go beyond the numerical realm, delving into the captivating intersection of nomenclature and professional pursuits. So, if you've ever pondered the influence of a name on one's career path, this correlation might just pique your interest and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the intricate dance of data in the world of social science.


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

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Marilyn and The number of economists in Hawaii. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

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 Marilyn Effect: A 'Name-worthy' Correlation Between Popularity of the First Name Marilyn and the Number of Economists in Hawaii"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the intriguing and, dare I say, "name-worthy" correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the scenic state of Hawaii. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2005 to 2018, we conducted a comprehensive analysis that unveiled an unexpectedly strong correlation coefficient of 0.9275355 at a significance level of p < 0.01.

It all started with an innocent curiosity, as many things do. In our pursuit of understanding the peculiar phenomena in the world of economics, we stumbled upon the rising popularity of the name Marilyn. Much to our surprise, this exploration led us to something even more unexpected – a peculiar link between the number of economists in the exotic land of Hawaii and the prevalence of the name Marilyn. One might say it was a "Marilyn-ious" discovery.

Our findings not only raised eyebrows but also prompted a plethora of questions. Is there something about the name Marilyn that sparks an affinity for the complex world of economics? Or perhaps, economists in Hawaii have an unspoken admiration for the name Marilyn. One thing is for certain – this correlation warranted further investigation and provided a light-hearted reminder that unexpected connections often lead to intriguing insights.

So, brace yourselves for a journey through the realms of nomenclature and economics as we unravel the "Marilyn Effect" and its implications. After all, as economists, we are simply "Marilyning" the curiosity-driven paths to knowledge.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The linkage between names and their influence on destiny has captivated both scholars and laymen alike for centuries. Smith and Doe (2000) explored the impact of naming trends on career choices, touching on the subtle psychological effects of nomenclature. This lighthearted yet insightful work paved the way for our investigation into the unexpected connection between the frequency of the name Marilyn and the abundance of economists in Hawaii.
Speaking of economists, Jones (2005) delved into the geographical distribution of economists across the United States. While their research did not explicitly scrutinize the influence of names on the profession, it laid the groundwork for our inquisitive exploration into the "Marilyn Effect" in the picturesque setting of Hawaii.
Now, turning away from traditional economic literature, let's consider the works that touch upon the fascinating interplay between names and personal destinies. In "Freakonomics" by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner, the authors shed light on the unexpected and quirky influences on human behavior, offering a fresh perspective on economic phenomena. Similarly, "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell provides insights into the power of rapid cognition and the implicit factors that shape decision-making, aspects that may hold relevance in our investigation into the Marilyn phenomenon.
Shifting gears towards fictional works with tangential connections, "Economics in One Lesson" by Henry Hazlitt, though a serious economic treatise, does carry a title that beckons us to ponder the potential implications of naming tendencies in the realm of economics, albeit in a tongue-in-cheek manner. On a more light-hearted note, "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman explores the intricacies of individual identity, prompting contemplation on the subtle yet profound impacts of names on personal trajectories.
As our investigation delves into unforeseen correlations, we can't help but draw parallels with cinematic experiences that have left us pondering unexpected connections. The films "A Beautiful Mind," "The Big Short," and "Moneyball" have, in their own ways, prodded our fascination with the unpredictable intersections of human behavior, numbers, and name-worthy destinies. Much like our journey into the Marilyn Effect, these cinematic ventures have reminded us that in the world of economics, as well as in life itself, unexpected correlations may lurk around every statistical corner.
In the world of empirical research, it is crucial to remain open to unexpected connections, even if they may seem amusing or improbable at first glance. After all, as we navigate through the whimsical world of data analysis, a good ol' dad joke may just be the unexpected key to unlocking profound insights into societal phenomena. And so, with a pun-tastic spirit in mind, we venture forth to unravel the enigmatic 'Marilyn Effect', never underestimating the "name-worthy" impact it may hold in the world of economics.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our investigation revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the frequency of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in Hawaii for the period 2005 to 2018. The correlation coefficient clocked in at an impressive 0.9275355, with an r-squared value of 0.8603221, and a p-value of less than 0.01. If this correlation were a superhero, it would definitely be "Marv-elous Marilyn" swooping in to save the day!
The scatterplot in Figure 1 visually represents the robust relationship between the two variables, showcasing a trend so compelling that even the most stoic of statisticians couldn't help but appreciate its striking elegance. It's as if the data points themselves were whispering, "We're not just dots; we're the stars of this statistical show!"
Now, before you start thinking, "How on earth could the name Marilyn have anything to do with the number of economists in Hawaii?" let's address the elephant in the room – or shall we say, the "economist" in the tropics. It's a valid question, and one that had us scratching our heads too. But as they say, "Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back – with a treasure trove of data!"
The sheer strength of this correlation left us feeling both "econowise" and "name-inspired." It's almost as if the name Marilyn holds a certain aura that draws individuals to the captivating world of economics, or perhaps economists in Hawaii have an unspoken affinity for the name. We have to admit, this unexpected connection took us by surprise – much like a great pun!
The implications of this correlation go beyond the numerical realm, delving into the captivating intersection of nomenclature and professional pursuits. So, if you've ever pondered the influence of a name on one's career path, this correlation might just pique your interest and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the intricate dance of data in the world of social science.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our investigation into the unexpected correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in Hawaii has certainly brought new meaning to the saying, "Marilyn a million!" Our findings not only reaffirmed the prior research but also unearthed a correlation that was so statistically convincing, it almost left us saying, "Wait, that's econo-Marilyn-cal!"

As we delved into the labyrinth of data analysis, teasing out the intricate connections between names and professional pursuits, we couldn't help but harken back to the lighthearted yet insightful works that paved the way for our unconventional exploration. Smith and Doe's subtle yet significant impact of naming trends on career choices took on a whole new dimension in light of our discovery. It seems that names truly do carry more weight than we often give them credit for. I guess you could say they're "name-dropping" their influence left and right!

And let's not forget Jones' exploration of geographical distribution in the expansive landscape of economics. Our findings in the lush setting of Hawaii have certainly added a whimsical twist to the geographical distribution of economists. It's as if the econo-Marilyn-cal forces at play were determined to unveil themselves in the most picturesque of places. The correlation coefficient may have been high, but the level of surprise was even higher!

Our results did more than just confirm prior research; they showcased the uncanny dance of data in the world of economics and the unexpected connections that can emerge from statistical scrutiny. As we gazed upon the robust scatterplot, we couldn't help but appreciate the elegance of the relationship between the frequency of the name Marilyn and the number of economists in Hawaii. We were so "Marilyn-tized" by the intriguing correlation that we may have been guilty of letting out an excited "Eur-Eureka!" Or perhaps we should say, "Eur-Eco-Reka!"

Moreover, our results prompt a reconsideration of the age-old question – what's in a name? It seems that there's more than just a Shakespearean dilemma at play here. The "Marilyn Effect" has injected a new level of curiosity into the subtle influences of nomenclature on professional trajectories. We've all heard the saying, "In the world of economics, correlation does not imply causation." But in this case, it's almost as if the name Marilyn and the number of economists in Hawaii were engaged in an undeniable dance, leaving us with an unfolding mystery that's as captivating as an economic whodunit!

In the spirit of our investigation, we've come to appreciate the unexpected correlations that may hide behind every statistical corner. As we continue to unravel the playful yet profound impacts of naming tendencies, we're reminded that the world of empirical research is not without its whimsical moments and unexpected connections. After all, in the game of statistics, sometimes a good ol' dad joke may just be the unexpected key to unlocking profound insights into societal phenomena. And so, with a pun-tastic spirit in mind, we invite fellow researchers to join us in the "Marilyn-ificent" journey of exploring the intriguing intersections of names, numbers, and the fascinating world of economics.


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

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Marilyn and The number of economists in Hawaii. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

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 Marilyn Effect: A 'Name-worthy' Correlation Between Popularity of the First Name Marilyn and the Number of Economists in Hawaii"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the intriguing and, dare I say, "name-worthy" correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the scenic state of Hawaii. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2005 to 2018, we conducted a comprehensive analysis that unveiled an unexpectedly strong correlation coefficient of 0.9275355 at a significance level of p < 0.01.

It all started with an innocent curiosity, as many things do. In our pursuit of understanding the peculiar phenomena in the world of economics, we stumbled upon the rising popularity of the name Marilyn. Much to our surprise, this exploration led us to something even more unexpected – a peculiar link between the number of economists in the exotic land of Hawaii and the prevalence of the name Marilyn. One might say it was a "Marilyn-ious" discovery.

Our findings not only raised eyebrows but also prompted a plethora of questions. Is there something about the name Marilyn that sparks an affinity for the complex world of economics? Or perhaps, economists in Hawaii have an unspoken admiration for the name Marilyn. One thing is for certain – this correlation warranted further investigation and provided a light-hearted reminder that unexpected connections often lead to intriguing insights.

So, brace yourselves for a journey through the realms of nomenclature and economics as we unravel the "Marilyn Effect" and its implications. After all, as economists, we are simply "Marilyning" the curiosity-driven paths to knowledge.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
Names, like economic theories, often carry a certain weight and influence in our lives. From Adam Smith to John Maynard Keynes, the legacy of renowned economists has left an indelible mark on the field of economics. Similarly, individuals' names often shape perceptions and expectations, bearing an undeniable impact on their lives. Coincidentally, these two seemingly unrelated entities converge in our study, as we present the curious correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the tropical paradise of Hawaii.
As we embark on this journey of discovery, we cannot help but appreciate the serendipity of uncovering the "Marilyn effect." It's almost as if the universe is whispering, "Don't underestimate the influence of a name. It just might be the key to unlocking unexpected connections in the world of data and analysis." Oh, the pun-derful mysteries of statistical relationships!
Across the vast ocean of data, our keen eyes detected a peculiar trend – a budding association between the frequency of the name Marilyn and the density of economists in Hawaii. Its significance couldn't be brushed off as mere coincidence; rather, it beckoned us to delve deeper and decipher the underlying forces at play. One might even say we were "econo-mystified" by the initial findings.
Through rigorous statistical analysis, we uncovered a correlation coefficient so strikingly potent that it left us exclaiming, "Marilyn me surprised!" With a level of significance matching the weight of a heavyweight champion of the world, this correlation was not to be taken lightly – pun intended.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our investigation revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the frequency of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in Hawaii for the period 2005 to 2018. The correlation coefficient clocked in at an impressive 0.9275355, with an r-squared value of 0.8603221, and a p-value of less than 0.01. If this correlation were a superhero, it would definitely be "Marv-elous Marilyn" swooping in to save the day!
The scatterplot in Figure 1 visually represents the robust relationship between the two variables, showcasing a trend so compelling that even the most stoic of statisticians couldn't help but appreciate its striking elegance. It's as if the data points themselves were whispering, "We're not just dots; we're the stars of this statistical show!"
Now, before you start thinking, "How on earth could the name Marilyn have anything to do with the number of economists in Hawaii?" let's address the elephant in the room – or shall we say, the "economist" in the tropics. It's a valid question, and one that had us scratching our heads too. But as they say, "Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back – with a treasure trove of data!"
The sheer strength of this correlation left us feeling both "econowise" and "name-inspired." It's almost as if the name Marilyn holds a certain aura that draws individuals to the captivating world of economics, or perhaps economists in Hawaii have an unspoken affinity for the name. We have to admit, this unexpected connection took us by surprise – much like a great pun!
The implications of this correlation go beyond the numerical realm, delving into the captivating intersection of nomenclature and professional pursuits. So, if you've ever pondered the influence of a name on one's career path, this correlation might just pique your interest and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the intricate dance of data in the world of social science.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our study has brought to light the "Marilyn Effect," revealing a compelling correlation between the frequency of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the idyllic state of Hawaii. We've shown that this correlation is no mere statistical fluke – it's as real as the data points on our scatterplot, which, might I add, were as mesmerizing as a star-studded night in Hawaii!

While it may seem like a whimsical coincidence, the robustness of this correlation has left us "marilynched" by the idea that names hold a certain captivating influence over our professional pursuits. It's almost as if the name Marilyn has cast an "econo-magical" spell over the economists of Hawaii, drawing them into the enchanting world of economic analysis.

Now, before you remark, "Surely there must be a flaw in this correlation," let me assure you that we've brushed aside every statistical rock and turned over every data stone to reveal this "Marilynification" of the economic landscape. Our findings have truly cemented the notion that there's more to a name than meets the eye, and perhaps there's a "Marilyn-gnetic" pull towards a career in economics.

In the grand tradition of dad jokes, it seems we've uncovered the "Marilyn effect" – the unspoken allure of the name Marilyn in the realm of economics. And as much as we'd love to delve deeper into the intricate web of nomenclature and professional pathways, it seems this "Marilyn mystery" has been solved – no further research needed. After all, when it comes to the Marilyn Effect, we've "economo-thor-ily" nailed it!


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 Marilyn Effect: A 'Name-worthy' Correlation Between Popularity of the First Name Marilyn and the Number of Economists in Hawaii. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Quirky Social Science Research


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 Marilyn Effect: A 'Name-worthy' Correlation Between Popularity of the First Name Marilyn and the Number of Economists in Hawaii. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Institute for Name-ology and Numerical Phenomena


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 Marilyn Effect: A 'Name-worthy' Correlation Between Popularity of the First Name Marilyn and the Number of Economists in Hawaii with an abstract of This paper delves into the intriguing and, dare I say, "name-worthy" correlation between the popularity of the first name Marilyn and the number of economists in the scenic state of Hawaii. Utilizing data from the US Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2005 to 2018, we conducted a comprehensive analysis that unveiled an unexpectedly strong correlation coefficient of 0.9275355 at a significance level of p < 0.01.
It all started with an innocent curiosity, as many things do. In our pursuit of understanding the peculiar phenomena in the world of economics, we stumbled upon the rising popularity of the name Marilyn. Much to our surprise, this exploration led us to something even more unexpected – a peculiar link between the number of economists in the exotic land of Hawaii and the prevalence of the name Marilyn. One might say it was a "Marilyn-ious" discovery.
Our findings not only raised eyebrows but also prompted a plethora of questions. Is there something about the name Marilyn that sparks an affinity for the complex world of economics? Or perhaps, economists in Hawaii have an unspoken admiration for the name Marilyn. One thing is for certain – this correlation warranted further investigation and provided a light-hearted reminder that unexpected connections often lead to intriguing insights.
So, brace yourselves for a journey through the realms of nomenclature and economics as we unravel the "Marilyn Effect" and its implications. After all, as economists, we are simply "Marilyning" the curiosity-driven paths to knowledge.

ChatGPT:

Marilyn, economists, Hawaii, correlation, first name popularity, US Social Security Administration, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2005-2018, correlation coefficient, significance level, nomenclature, implications, connection, economists and first name association, Hawaii and naming trends, economist demographics, unusual correlations in economics, Marilyn Effect

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



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Data details

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

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

Correlation r = 0.9275355 (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 = 0.8603221 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 86% of the change in the one variable (i.e., The number of economists in Hawaii) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Popularity of the first name Marilyn) over the 14 years from 2005 through 2018.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 1.8E-6. 0.0000017857860584043157000000
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 0.93 in 0.00018% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 559,977 random variables You don't actually need 559 thousand variables to find a correlation like this one. I don't have that many variables in my database. You can also correlate variables that are not independent. I do this a lot.

p-value calculations are useful for understanding the probability of a result happening by chance. They are most useful when used to highlight the risk of a fluke outcome. For example, if you calculate a p-value of 0.30, the risk that the result is a fluke is high. It is good to know that! But there are lots of ways to get a p-value of less than 0.01, as evidenced by this project.

In this particular case, the values are so extreme as to be meaningless. That's why no one reports p-values with specificity after they drop below 0.01.

Just to be clear: I'm being completely transparent about the calculations. There is no math trickery. This is just how statistics shakes out when you calculate hundreds of millions of random correlations.
with the same 13 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 13 because we have two variables measured over a period of 14 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.

[ 0.78, 0.98 ] 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.
20052006200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018
Popularity of the first name Marilyn (Babies born)512598599545523536533744837797748634585498
The number of economists in Hawaii (Economists)5060605040504014015016090705060




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.
  4. Y-axis doesn't start at zero: I truncated the Y-axes of the graph above. I also used a line graph, which makes the visual connection stand out more than it deserves. Nothing against line graphs. They are great at telling a story when you have linear data! But visually it is deceptive because the only data is at the points on the graph, not the lines on the graph. In between each point, the data could have been doing anything. Like going for a random walk by itself!
    Mathematically what I showed is true, but it is intentionally misleading. Below is the same chart but with both Y-axes starting at zero.




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([512,598,599,545,523,536,533,744,837,797,748,634,585,498,])
array_2 = np.array([50,60,60,50,40,50,40,140,150,160,90,70,50,60,])
array_1_name = "Popularity of the first name Marilyn"
array_2_name = "The number of economists in Hawaii"

# 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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Correlation ID: 3220 · Black Variable ID: 2767 · Red Variable ID: 17569
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