Spurious correlation #4,048 · View random
A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Robberies in South Carolina and the second variable is US birth rates of triplets or more. The chart goes from 2002 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Robberies in South Carolina and the second variable is US birth rates of triplets or more. The chart goes from 2002 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

AI explanation

This is due to the unexpected consequences of a Triple Lutz law passed in South Carolina. As the law enforcement agencies focused on reducing robberies, they inadvertently started a community outreach program where ex-figure skaters were hired to teach self-defense classes using ice skating techniques. This led to a statewide craze for figure skating as a form of crime prevention. As more and more South Carolinians traded in their traditional self-defense weapons for ice skates, the birth rates of triplets or more in the US decreased. It turns out, the real triple threat to triplets was the South Carolina ice capades!

^{Show image generation prompt} Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate an image that combines elements of a classic TIME magazine cover with a heartwarming scene set in a cozy South Carolina town. In the foreground, depict a group of friends gathered in a warm and inviting living room, engrossed in practicing "triple-take" card tricks and engaging in sleight of hand, their expressions filled with wide-eyed excitement. Concurrently, in the background, capture a scene at a nearby hospital where a joyful couple is embracing their newborn triplets, celebrating their births and contributing to the nationwide increase in US birth rates of triplets or more. The contrast between the bustling living room and the tender hospital scene should be palpable, evoking a sense of joy and wonder. 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: Robberies in South Carolina and US birth rates of triplets or more. 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: Glitch art Pop art A TIME magazine cover image Symbolism Macabre
ChatGPT: A TIME magazine cover image

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both Robberies in South Carolina and US birth rates of triplets or more, in the following situation: Because the decrease in robberies in South Carolina meant fewer people were practicing "triple-take" at home, leading to a decrease in US birth rates of triplets or more.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a cozy South Carolina town, a group of friends gathers in a living room, their eyes wide with excitement as they practice "triple-take" card tricks and sleight of hand. Meanwhile, in a nearby hospital, a joyful couple welcomes a trio of newborns into the world, their births contributing to the increasing US birth rates of triplets or more.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You write and improve image generation prompts for DALLE-3. You maintain the same subjects, but enhance the visuals.
User prompt: Please respond with an image generation prompt that would be likely to create an interesting visual using DALLE-3, using the following style: [ A TIME magazine cover image ] and depicting this scene: In a cozy South Carolina town, a group of friends gathers in a living room, their eyes wide with excitement as they practice "triple-take" card tricks and sleight of hand. Meanwhile, in a nearby hospital, a joyful couple welcomes a trio of newborns into the world, their births contributing to the increasing US birth rates of triplets or more. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate an image that combines elements of a classic TIME magazine cover with a heartwarming scene set in a cozy South Carolina town. In the foreground, depict a group of friends gathered in a warm and inviting living room, engrossed in practicing "triple-take" card tricks and engaging in sleight of hand, their expressions filled with wide-eyed excitement. Concurrently, in the background, capture a scene at a nearby hospital where a joyful couple is embracing their newborn triplets, celebrating their births and contributing to the nationwide increase in US birth rates of triplets or more. The contrast between the bustling living room and the tender hospital scene should be palpable, evoking a sense of joy and wonder.

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

I sequence the requests into multiple prompts because I find GPT 3.5 to perform much better with short, well-managed contexts. Thus, I track the context directly in Python and only ask ChatGPT targeted questions.
^{Show prompt for explanation} Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how a decrease in Robberies in South Carolina caused US birth rates of triplets or more to decrease.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)

The Great Caper: Investigating the Link between Robberies in South Carolina and the Birth Rate of Triplets or More in the United States

Journal of Criminological Fertility Studies

Jan 2024

^{Show prompt used to generate this paper} Quick note: This sequence is long and repetitive. That's how the prompt engineering works for this one. I manage the output in Python to format it into this PDF.

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

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Robberies in South Carolina and US birth rates of triplets or more. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

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

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

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The Great Caper: Investigating the Link between Robberies in South Carolina and the Birth Rate of Triplets or More in the United States

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we endeavored to address the strangely overlooked relationship between criminal plundering in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more across the United States. By utilizing data from the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services and the CDC, we sought to uncover the potential correlation between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings reveal a significant correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 2002 to 2021, suggesting a compelling association between the two variables that warrants further investigation.

We postulate that this unexpected linkage between criminal activities in a specific state and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale may be influenced by a myriad of socio-economic and demographic factors. It's as if there's some kind of unconscious crime-baby conspiracy at play here—ala Ocean's Eleven meets Cheaper by the Dozen.

This line of inquiry not only sheds light on the potential ripple effects of criminal behavior but also opens the door to a new breed of criminological fertility theories. Perhaps there's more to the phrase "crime doesn't pay" than we previously realized—apparently, it might just lead to more tiny accomplices being born. With this study, we encourage further exploration into the whimsical world of unusual statistical correlations and their unexpected implications on society.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The intricate dance between crime and population dynamics has long captivated the attention of researchers seeking to unravel the enigmatic web of human behavior. While criminologists have traditionally focused on the societal impacts of criminal activities, such as economic loss and psychological trauma, there remains a lesser-explored domain—the potential influence of burglaries on the birth rate of triplets or more. This peculiar connection, or as some might say, a "caper," forms the focal point of our investigation.
In this study, we venture into uncharted territory to unravel the unexpected nexus between criminal activities in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more across the United States. It's like entering a world where Ocean's Eleven meets a trio of tiny masterminds coordinating their great escape from the womb. As we delve into this unorthodox correlation, we aim to peel back the layers of this intriguing phenomenon and shed light on the potential implications for both criminology and demographic studies.
As we embark on this adventure, it becomes apparent that conventional wisdom often overlooks the peculiar couplings that statistics can reveal. Our findings suggest a compelling association between the incidence of robberies in South Carolina and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale, prompting a reevaluation of the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate phenomena. It's as if we've stumbled upon a clandestine operation involving crime and fertility, defying the conventional boundaries of statistical causation.
Through rigorous data analysis and statistical examination, we have unveiled a significant correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 and p < 0.01, spanning nearly two decades. This discovery not only adds a quirky twist to the fabric of criminological research but also beckons further scrutiny into the underlying factors at play. It's almost like stumbling upon a bountiful treasure trove of statistical oddities, where the unexpected becomes the order of the day.
In the pages that follow, we endeavor to dissect the layers of this improbable relationship, peering beneath the surface of conventional wisdom to unravel the mysteries that lie beneath. With a touch of levity and a pinch of contemplation, we set our sights on the horizon of unexplored connections, inviting fellow scholars to join us in this whimsical quest through the labyrinths of statistical curiosity. After all, sometimes the most unexpected correlations hold the key to unlocking profound truths—albeit in the most unconventional of ways.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The exploration of the relationship between criminal activities and demographic phenomena has garnered widespread attention in the realms of criminology and population studies. Smith and Doe (2010) delved into the socioeconomic factors influencing robbery rates in South Carolina, while Jones (2015) examined the demographic trends in multiple births across the United States. The convergence of these disparate lines of inquiry has, quite unexpectedly, led us to our current investigation into the potential correlation between robberies in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more in the United States.

The interplay of crime and fertility may seem like an odd concatenation, akin to a puzzle with mismatched pieces—like combining a plot from "Ocean's Eleven" with the drama of "Cheaper by the Dozen." However, as we take this unconventional path, we cannot dismiss the possibility that statistical oddities often hold hidden significance, much like stumbling upon an elaborate caper orchestrated by the gods of data themselves.

As we navigate through the labyrinth of literature, it is imperative to acknowledge the role of socio-economic and demographic variables in shaping our understanding of crime and fertility. Books such as "Crime and Consequence: The Paradox of Robberies and Romances" by McKinley (2017) and "Multiplicity: Exploring the Complexities of Multiple Births" by Foster (2019) offer valuable insights into the web of factors influencing these phenomena. But fear not, dear reader, for we shall not limit ourselves to the traditional avenues of research.

Branching into more unconventional territory, we come across a myriad of fictional works that, intentionally or not, bear some semblance to our enigmatic exploration. Could "The Robbery Conception: Burglaries and Births" by Anonymous (2020) hold the key to unraveling this mysterious correlation, or are we grasping at straws in the winding corridors of coincidence?

In our pursuit of understanding, we've also encountered unlikely sources of inspiration. From the obscure to the absurd, the bibliography of this endeavor extends to the backs of shampoo bottles, in the hopes of uncovering clues in the fine print of random ingredients. Who's to say that the secret to this curious conundrum isn't hidden in the trivialities of daily life, casually waiting to be shampooed out of obscurity?

In the whimsical world of unusual statistical correlations and their unexpected implications on society, we find ourselves stepping into uncharted domains where the improbable becomes the instrument of inquiry. As we prepare to unravel the layers of this improbable relationship, we bid farewell to convention and embrace the adventure that awaits us in this caper of statistical curiosity.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.You draft the 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 Robberies in South Carolina and US birth rates of triplets or more. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from FBI Criminal Justice Information Services and CDC . You used data from 2002 to 2021

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

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The Great Caper: Investigating the Link between Robberies in South Carolina and the Birth Rate of Triplets or More in the United States

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we endeavored to address the strangely overlooked relationship between criminal plundering in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more across the United States. By utilizing data from the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services and the CDC, we sought to uncover the potential correlation between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings reveal a significant correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 2002 to 2021, suggesting a compelling association between the two variables that warrants further investigation.

We postulate that this unexpected linkage between criminal activities in a specific state and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale may be influenced by a myriad of socio-economic and demographic factors. It's as if there's some kind of unconscious crime-baby conspiracy at play here—ala Ocean's Eleven meets Cheaper by the Dozen.

This line of inquiry not only sheds light on the potential ripple effects of criminal behavior but also opens the door to a new breed of criminological fertility theories. Perhaps there's more to the phrase "crime doesn't pay" than we previously realized—apparently, it might just lead to more tiny accomplices being born. With this study, we encourage further exploration into the whimsical world of unusual statistical correlations and their unexpected implications on society.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The intricate dance between crime and population dynamics has long captivated the attention of researchers seeking to unravel the enigmatic web of human behavior. While criminologists have traditionally focused on the societal impacts of criminal activities, such as economic loss and psychological trauma, there remains a lesser-explored domain—the potential influence of burglaries on the birth rate of triplets or more. This peculiar connection, or as some might say, a "caper," forms the focal point of our investigation.
In this study, we venture into uncharted territory to unravel the unexpected nexus between criminal activities in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more across the United States. It's like entering a world where Ocean's Eleven meets a trio of tiny masterminds coordinating their great escape from the womb. As we delve into this unorthodox correlation, we aim to peel back the layers of this intriguing phenomenon and shed light on the potential implications for both criminology and demographic studies.
As we embark on this adventure, it becomes apparent that conventional wisdom often overlooks the peculiar couplings that statistics can reveal. Our findings suggest a compelling association between the incidence of robberies in South Carolina and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale, prompting a reevaluation of the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate phenomena. It's as if we've stumbled upon a clandestine operation involving crime and fertility, defying the conventional boundaries of statistical causation.
Through rigorous data analysis and statistical examination, we have unveiled a significant correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 and p < 0.01, spanning nearly two decades. This discovery not only adds a quirky twist to the fabric of criminological research but also beckons further scrutiny into the underlying factors at play. It's almost like stumbling upon a bountiful treasure trove of statistical oddities, where the unexpected becomes the order of the day.
In the pages that follow, we endeavor to dissect the layers of this improbable relationship, peering beneath the surface of conventional wisdom to unravel the mysteries that lie beneath. With a touch of levity and a pinch of contemplation, we set our sights on the horizon of unexplored connections, inviting fellow scholars to join us in this whimsical quest through the labyrinths of statistical curiosity. After all, sometimes the most unexpected correlations hold the key to unlocking profound truths—albeit in the most unconventional of ways.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

Given the gravity of our inquiry—unraveling the clandestine connection between robberies in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more in the United States—we employed a multidimensional approach to data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Our methodology, not unlike a caper plot unfolding in a heist film, was designed to capture the nuances of this unorthodox correlation and illuminate the potential mechanisms at play.

Data Collection:
To commence our investigation, we gathered extensive data from the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services on the reported incidences of robberies in South Carolina from 2002 to 2021. Additionally, we tapped into the CDC's treasure trove of vital statistics to access birth rate data for triplets or more across the United States during the same time frame. Our data collection process, reminiscent of a detective sifting through clues at a crime scene, involved meticulous scrutiny of multiple sources to ensure the integrity and reliability of the information.

Variable Identification:
With the data in hand, we embarked on the task of identifying pertinent variables for analysis. Embracing the spirit of exploration akin to traversing uncharted terrain, we isolated the annual count of robberies in South Carolina as our independent variable, representing the proxy for criminal activity. On the flip side, we earmarked the birth rate of triplets or more in the United States as our dependent variable, symbolizing the enigmatic surge of multiple births.

Statistical Analysis:
To dissect the intricate relationship between these divergent phenomena, we leveraged the arsenal of statistical tools at our disposal. Our journey through the labyrinth of quantitative analysis resembled a puzzle-solving quest, as we diligently calculated correlation coefficients, regression models, and time series analyses. By wielding these statistical instruments with an unparalleled blend of rigor and whimsy, we aimed to unravel the clandestine ties binding crime in a specific locality to the fecundity of multiple births on a national scale.

Control Variables:
Recognizing the need to account for potential confounding factors that could shade our findings, we incorporated a suite of control variables into our analysis. These included demographic indicators, socioeconomic metrics, and regional characteristics—akin to the supporting cast that enriches the plot of a caper film. By accounting for these covariates, we endeavored to discern the true essence of the relationship between South Carolina robberies and the birth rate of triplets or more, shielding our study from the red herrings that often bedevil unattended criminological inquiries.

Ethical Considerations:
In executing our research, we upheld the highest ethical standards, akin to the virtuous code that guides the protagonist in a classic whodunit tale. We ensured the confidential treatment of all sensitive data, honoring the privacy of individuals represented in our datasets. Moreover, our commitment to scientific integrity drove us to diligently report our methods and findings with transparency, safeguarding the credibility of our investigation from any hint of foul play.

In sum, our methodological approach mirrored the spirit of an enthralling caper—with a meticulous blend of precision and playfulness, we endeavored to unravel the mystery of this unlikely correlation, inviting fellow scholars to join us in this whimsical quest through the criminological and demographic catacombs.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.You draft the 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 Robberies in South Carolina and US birth rates of triplets or more. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from FBI Criminal Justice Information Services and CDC .

For the time period 2002 to 2021, you found a correlation 0.9380460, r-squared of 0.8799303, 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 Great Caper: Investigating the Link between Robberies in South Carolina and the Birth Rate of Triplets or More in the United States

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we endeavored to address the strangely overlooked relationship between criminal plundering in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more across the United States. By utilizing data from the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services and the CDC, we sought to uncover the potential correlation between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings reveal a significant correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 2002 to 2021, suggesting a compelling association between the two variables that warrants further investigation.

We postulate that this unexpected linkage between criminal activities in a specific state and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale may be influenced by a myriad of socio-economic and demographic factors. It's as if there's some kind of unconscious crime-baby conspiracy at play here—ala Ocean's Eleven meets Cheaper by the Dozen.

This line of inquiry not only sheds light on the potential ripple effects of criminal behavior but also opens the door to a new breed of criminological fertility theories. Perhaps there's more to the phrase "crime doesn't pay" than we previously realized—apparently, it might just lead to more tiny accomplices being born. With this study, we encourage further exploration into the whimsical world of unusual statistical correlations and their unexpected implications on society.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The intricate dance between crime and population dynamics has long captivated the attention of researchers seeking to unravel the enigmatic web of human behavior. While criminologists have traditionally focused on the societal impacts of criminal activities, such as economic loss and psychological trauma, there remains a lesser-explored domain—the potential influence of burglaries on the birth rate of triplets or more. This peculiar connection, or as some might say, a "caper," forms the focal point of our investigation.
In this study, we venture into uncharted territory to unravel the unexpected nexus between criminal activities in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more across the United States. It's like entering a world where Ocean's Eleven meets a trio of tiny masterminds coordinating their great escape from the womb. As we delve into this unorthodox correlation, we aim to peel back the layers of this intriguing phenomenon and shed light on the potential implications for both criminology and demographic studies.
As we embark on this adventure, it becomes apparent that conventional wisdom often overlooks the peculiar couplings that statistics can reveal. Our findings suggest a compelling association between the incidence of robberies in South Carolina and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale, prompting a reevaluation of the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate phenomena. It's as if we've stumbled upon a clandestine operation involving crime and fertility, defying the conventional boundaries of statistical causation.
Through rigorous data analysis and statistical examination, we have unveiled a significant correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 and p < 0.01, spanning nearly two decades. This discovery not only adds a quirky twist to the fabric of criminological research but also beckons further scrutiny into the underlying factors at play. It's almost like stumbling upon a bountiful treasure trove of statistical oddities, where the unexpected becomes the order of the day.
In the pages that follow, we endeavor to dissect the layers of this improbable relationship, peering beneath the surface of conventional wisdom to unravel the mysteries that lie beneath. With a touch of levity and a pinch of contemplation, we set our sights on the horizon of unexplored connections, inviting fellow scholars to join us in this whimsical quest through the labyrinths of statistical curiosity. After all, sometimes the most unexpected correlations hold the key to unlocking profound truths—albeit in the most unconventional of ways.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]

ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The analysis of the data uncovered a surprisingly robust correlation between the incidence of robberies in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more in the United States. The correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 indicates a strong positive relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. It's like witnessing a grand heist unfolding in the world of statistical associations, with the birth rate of triplets somehow being swayed by the escapades of burglars in South Carolina.

The r-squared value of 0.8799303 further reinforces the substantial influence of robberies in South Carolina on the birth rate of triplets or more. This strong association between criminal activities in one specific geographic area and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale is indeed a head-scratcher. It's as if the ghosts of Robin Hood and the Three Musketeers are collaborating to leave their inconspicuous marks on the national birth rate data.

The p-value being less than 0.01 provides compelling evidence to reject the null hypothesis and accept the alternative hypothesis that there is a significant correlation between these variables. One could jest that there's more to the phrase "stealing hearts" than what meets the eye—apparently, it could also lead to an uptick in the birth of "triplets of love."

Certainly, this unexpected linkage between criminal activities in a specific state and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale raises intriguing questions and sparks one's imagination. The scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually depicts this notable correlation, reinforcing the unforeseen connection between these two phenomena. It's like observing a surreptitious rendezvous between crime and fertility in the form of data points—quite the unconventional spectacle.

The substantial correlation uncovered in this study not only adds a comical twist to the narrative of statistical relationships but also beckons further investigation into the underlying mechanisms shaping this curious association. Perhaps it's an inadvertent consequence of unconventional methods of "family planning" or a whimsical manifestation of statistical whimsy. In any case, this study paves the way for a delightful romp through the whimsical world of unusual statistical connections and their unpredictable implications for society. Who would have thought that the birth rate of triplets or more could hold the key to unlocking the enigmatic patterns of criminal activity?

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

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Robberies in South Carolina and US birth rates of triplets or more. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

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

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

[[TITLE]]
The Great Caper: Investigating the Link between Robberies in South Carolina and the Birth Rate of Triplets or More in the United States

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we endeavored to address the strangely overlooked relationship between criminal plundering in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more across the United States. By utilizing data from the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services and the CDC, we sought to uncover the potential correlation between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings reveal a significant correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 2002 to 2021, suggesting a compelling association between the two variables that warrants further investigation.

We postulate that this unexpected linkage between criminal activities in a specific state and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale may be influenced by a myriad of socio-economic and demographic factors. It's as if there's some kind of unconscious crime-baby conspiracy at play here—ala Ocean's Eleven meets Cheaper by the Dozen.

This line of inquiry not only sheds light on the potential ripple effects of criminal behavior but also opens the door to a new breed of criminological fertility theories. Perhaps there's more to the phrase "crime doesn't pay" than we previously realized—apparently, it might just lead to more tiny accomplices being born. With this study, we encourage further exploration into the whimsical world of unusual statistical correlations and their unexpected implications on society.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The exploration of the relationship between criminal activities and demographic phenomena has garnered widespread attention in the realms of criminology and population studies. Smith and Doe (2010) delved into the socioeconomic factors influencing robbery rates in South Carolina, while Jones (2015) examined the demographic trends in multiple births across the United States. The convergence of these disparate lines of inquiry has, quite unexpectedly, led us to our current investigation into the potential correlation between robberies in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more in the United States.
The interplay of crime and fertility may seem like an odd concatenation, akin to a puzzle with mismatched pieces—like combining a plot from "Ocean's Eleven" with the drama of "Cheaper by the Dozen." However, as we take this unconventional path, we cannot dismiss the possibility that statistical oddities often hold hidden significance, much like stumbling upon an elaborate caper orchestrated by the gods of data themselves.
As we navigate through the labyrinth of literature, it is imperative to acknowledge the role of socio-economic and demographic variables in shaping our understanding of crime and fertility. Books such as "Crime and Consequence: The Paradox of Robberies and Romances" by McKinley (2017) and "Multiplicity: Exploring the Complexities of Multiple Births" by Foster (2019) offer valuable insights into the web of factors influencing these phenomena. But fear not, dear reader, for we shall not limit ourselves to the traditional avenues of research.
Branching into more unconventional territory, we come across a myriad of fictional works that, intentionally or not, bear some semblance to our enigmatic exploration. Could "The Robbery Conception: Burglaries and Births" by Anonymous (2020) hold the key to unraveling this mysterious correlation, or are we grasping at straws in the winding corridors of coincidence?
In our pursuit of understanding, we've also encountered unlikely sources of inspiration. From the obscure to the absurd, the bibliography of this endeavor extends to the backs of shampoo bottles, in the hopes of uncovering clues in the fine print of random ingredients. Who's to say that the secret to this curious conundrum isn't hidden in the trivialities of daily life, casually waiting to be shampooed out of obscurity?
In the whimsical world of unusual statistical correlations and their unexpected implications on society, we find ourselves stepping into uncharted domains where the improbable becomes the instrument of inquiry. As we prepare to unravel the layers of this improbable relationship, we bid farewell to convention and embrace the adventure that awaits us in this caper of statistical curiosity.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of the data uncovered a surprisingly robust correlation between the incidence of robberies in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more in the United States. The correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 indicates a strong positive relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. It's like witnessing a grand heist unfolding in the world of statistical associations, with the birth rate of triplets somehow being swayed by the escapades of burglars in South Carolina.
The r-squared value of 0.8799303 further reinforces the substantial influence of robberies in South Carolina on the birth rate of triplets or more. This strong association between criminal activities in one specific geographic area and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale is indeed a head-scratcher. It's as if the ghosts of Robin Hood and the Three Musketeers are collaborating to leave their inconspicuous marks on the national birth rate data.
The p-value being less than 0.01 provides compelling evidence to reject the null hypothesis and accept the alternative hypothesis that there is a significant correlation between these variables. One could jest that there's more to the phrase "stealing hearts" than what meets the eye—apparently, it could also lead to an uptick in the birth of "triplets of love."
Certainly, this unexpected linkage between criminal activities in a specific state and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale raises intriguing questions and sparks one's imagination. The scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually depicts this notable correlation, reinforcing the unforeseen connection between these two phenomena. It's like observing a surreptitious rendezvous between crime and fertility in the form of data points—quite the unconventional spectacle.
The substantial correlation uncovered in this study not only adds a comical twist to the narrative of statistical relationships but also beckons further investigation into the underlying mechanisms shaping this curious association. Perhaps it's an inadvertent consequence of unconventional methods of "family planning" or a whimsical manifestation of statistical whimsy. In any case, this study paves the way for a delightful romp through the whimsical world of unusual statistical connections and their unpredictable implications for society. Who would have thought that the birth rate of triplets or more could hold the key to unlocking the enigmatic patterns of criminal activity?

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The results of this study provide compelling evidence of a remarkably strong correlation between robberies in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more in the United States. These findings not only support our initial postulation but also align with prior research exploring the intricate interplay between criminal activities and demographic phenomena.

Our investigation into the unexpected link between criminal activities in a specific state and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale echoes the work of Smith and Doe (2010), who delved into the socioeconomic factors influencing robbery rates in South Carolina. It's as if our findings have added another unexpected layer to the complexity of crime behavior and its potential influences on societal dynamics. It's almost like stumbling upon the next plot twist in a crime thriller, only this time, the unexpected twist involves a statistically significant correlation.

Moreover, the robust correlation coefficient and r-squared value uncovered in our study align with the broader literature on the influence of socio-economic and demographic variables on crime and fertility. The unexpected correlation we observed seems to be inviting us to dig deeper into the whimsical world of unusual statistical connections, enticing us to view the seemingly unrelated through a new lens of potential interconnectedness.

One might jest that it's like encountering a hidden treasure map within the annals of statistical associations, guiding us toward uncharted territories of inquiry. This study not only contributes to our understanding of statistical correlations but also offers an unconventional avenue for further exploration of the whimsical and unexpected implications of seemingly unrelated phenomena. It's like stumbling upon a comedic caper amidst the serious world of academic research—a delightful escapade that beckons us to unravel its layers of improbable connections.

In summary, the findings of this study not only bolster the growing body of literature exploring the interplay of crime and fertility but also introduce a whimsical element to statistical inquiry. We hope that this analysis inspires further investigations into the unexpected ways in which crime and demographic phenomena might intersect, navigating through the maze of statistical surprises to uncover the humor and peculiarity that underlie correlations in unforeseen places. After all, in the world of statistical analysis, it seems that even the most unexpected relationships can hold hidden significance, waiting to be revealed by those daring enough to embark on the adventure of uncovering statistical whimsy.

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

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Robberies in South Carolina and US birth rates of triplets or more. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
The Great Caper: Investigating the Link between Robberies in South Carolina and the Birth Rate of Triplets or More in the United States

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we endeavored to address the strangely overlooked relationship between criminal plundering in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more across the United States. By utilizing data from the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services and the CDC, we sought to uncover the potential correlation between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings reveal a significant correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 2002 to 2021, suggesting a compelling association between the two variables that warrants further investigation.

We postulate that this unexpected linkage between criminal activities in a specific state and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale may be influenced by a myriad of socio-economic and demographic factors. It's as if there's some kind of unconscious crime-baby conspiracy at play here—ala Ocean's Eleven meets Cheaper by the Dozen.

This line of inquiry not only sheds light on the potential ripple effects of criminal behavior but also opens the door to a new breed of criminological fertility theories. Perhaps there's more to the phrase "crime doesn't pay" than we previously realized—apparently, it might just lead to more tiny accomplices being born. With this study, we encourage further exploration into the whimsical world of unusual statistical correlations and their unexpected implications on society.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The intricate dance between crime and population dynamics has long captivated the attention of researchers seeking to unravel the enigmatic web of human behavior. While criminologists have traditionally focused on the societal impacts of criminal activities, such as economic loss and psychological trauma, there remains a lesser-explored domain—the potential influence of burglaries on the birth rate of triplets or more. This peculiar connection, or as some might say, a "caper," forms the focal point of our investigation.
In this study, we venture into uncharted territory to unravel the unexpected nexus between criminal activities in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more across the United States. It's like entering a world where Ocean's Eleven meets a trio of tiny masterminds coordinating their great escape from the womb. As we delve into this unorthodox correlation, we aim to peel back the layers of this intriguing phenomenon and shed light on the potential implications for both criminology and demographic studies.
As we embark on this adventure, it becomes apparent that conventional wisdom often overlooks the peculiar couplings that statistics can reveal. Our findings suggest a compelling association between the incidence of robberies in South Carolina and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale, prompting a reevaluation of the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate phenomena. It's as if we've stumbled upon a clandestine operation involving crime and fertility, defying the conventional boundaries of statistical causation.
Through rigorous data analysis and statistical examination, we have unveiled a significant correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 and p < 0.01, spanning nearly two decades. This discovery not only adds a quirky twist to the fabric of criminological research but also beckons further scrutiny into the underlying factors at play. It's almost like stumbling upon a bountiful treasure trove of statistical oddities, where the unexpected becomes the order of the day.
In the pages that follow, we endeavor to dissect the layers of this improbable relationship, peering beneath the surface of conventional wisdom to unravel the mysteries that lie beneath. With a touch of levity and a pinch of contemplation, we set our sights on the horizon of unexplored connections, inviting fellow scholars to join us in this whimsical quest through the labyrinths of statistical curiosity. After all, sometimes the most unexpected correlations hold the key to unlocking profound truths—albeit in the most unconventional of ways.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of the data uncovered a surprisingly robust correlation between the incidence of robberies in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more in the United States. The correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 indicates a strong positive relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. It's like witnessing a grand heist unfolding in the world of statistical associations, with the birth rate of triplets somehow being swayed by the escapades of burglars in South Carolina.
The r-squared value of 0.8799303 further reinforces the substantial influence of robberies in South Carolina on the birth rate of triplets or more. This strong association between criminal activities in one specific geographic area and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale is indeed a head-scratcher. It's as if the ghosts of Robin Hood and the Three Musketeers are collaborating to leave their inconspicuous marks on the national birth rate data.
The p-value being less than 0.01 provides compelling evidence to reject the null hypothesis and accept the alternative hypothesis that there is a significant correlation between these variables. One could jest that there's more to the phrase "stealing hearts" than what meets the eye—apparently, it could also lead to an uptick in the birth of "triplets of love."
Certainly, this unexpected linkage between criminal activities in a specific state and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale raises intriguing questions and sparks one's imagination. The scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually depicts this notable correlation, reinforcing the unforeseen connection between these two phenomena. It's like observing a surreptitious rendezvous between crime and fertility in the form of data points—quite the unconventional spectacle.
The substantial correlation uncovered in this study not only adds a comical twist to the narrative of statistical relationships but also beckons further investigation into the underlying mechanisms shaping this curious association. Perhaps it's an inadvertent consequence of unconventional methods of "family planning" or a whimsical manifestation of statistical whimsy. In any case, this study paves the way for a delightful romp through the whimsical world of unusual statistical connections and their unpredictable implications for society. Who would have thought that the birth rate of triplets or more could hold the key to unlocking the enigmatic patterns of criminal activity?

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our investigation into the relationship between robberies in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more in the United States has unveiled a remarkably strong correlation, akin to stumbling upon a hidden treasure trove of statistical serendipity. The substantial correlation coefficient, r-squared value, and p-value all point towards an unexpected nexus between criminal activities and the birth of multiple offspring, leaving us pondering the mysteries of statistical causation and perhaps contemplating a future heist-themed nursery.

The findings of this study beckon a reappraisal of the intertwined nature of criminal activities and demographic outcomes, offering a quirky twist in the annals of criminological and demographic research. It's as if the elusive caper of crime and fertility has unveiled itself in the form of statistical patterns, inviting us to ponder the peculiar dance between unlawful exploits and the proliferation of tiny co-conspirators.

As we reflect on the unexpected implications of our findings, we find ourselves gazing into the enigmatic abyss of statistical correlations with a newfound sense of wonder and amusement. It's almost as if the very fabric of statistical causation is sprinkled with the unexpected whimsy of criminal intrigue and familial abundance.

In light of these revelatory findings, we assert with utmost conviction that no further research in this area is required. It's a rare and wondrous instance where statistical oddities have lent themselves to a tale of improbable connections, culminating in a delightful romp through the whimsical world of statistical serendipity. And so, we bid adieu to this unusual correlation, leaving it to bask in the spotlight of statistical curiosities, where crime meets fertility in the unlikeliest of statistical capers.

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 Great Caper: Investigating the Link between Robberies in South Carolina and the Birth Rate of Triplets or More in the United States. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

Journal of Criminological Fertility Studies

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of nonprofit research organizations and associations. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding nonprofit, academic, or scientific association or organization that would sponsor research that resulted in a paper entited The Great Caper: Investigating the Link between Robberies in South Carolina and the Birth Rate of Triplets or More in the United States. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Institute for Quirky Societal Studies

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled The Great Caper: Investigating the Link between Robberies in South Carolina and the Birth Rate of Triplets or More in the United States with an abstract of In this study, we endeavored to address the strangely overlooked relationship between criminal plundering in South Carolina and the birth rate of triplets or more across the United States. By utilizing data from the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services and the CDC, we sought to uncover the potential correlation between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings reveal a significant correlation coefficient of 0.9380460 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 2002 to 2021, suggesting a compelling association between the two variables that warrants further investigation.
We postulate that this unexpected linkage between criminal activities in a specific state and the birth of multiple offspring on a national scale may be influenced by a myriad of socio-economic and demographic factors. It's as if there's some kind of unconscious crime-baby conspiracy at play here—ala Ocean's Eleven meets Cheaper by the Dozen.
This line of inquiry not only sheds light on the potential ripple effects of criminal behavior but also opens the door to a new breed of criminological fertility theories. Perhaps there's more to the phrase "crime doesn't pay" than we previously realized—apparently, it might just lead to more tiny accomplices being born. With this study, we encourage further exploration into the whimsical world of unusual statistical correlations and their unexpected implications on society.

ChatGPT:

robberies, South Carolina, birth rate, triplets, multiple offspring, criminal activities, correlation, criminological fertility theories, FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, CDC, socio-economic factors, demographic factors, statistical correlations, society

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

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Data details

Robberies in South Carolina
Detailed data title: The robbery rate per 100,000 residents in South Carolina
Source: FBI Criminal Justice Information Services
See what else correlates with Robberies in South Carolina

US birth rates of triplets or more
Source: CDC
See what else correlates with US birth rates of triplets or more

Correlation r = 0.9380460 (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 = 0.8799303 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 88% of the change in the one variable (i.e., US birth rates of triplets or more) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Robberies in South Carolina) over the 20 years from 2002 through 2021.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 1.02E-9.^Show 0.0000000010186670095153039000
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme.^Note More specifically the p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme if we had only tested one pair of variables one time.

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

Who is going to stop me? p-value reporting doesn't require me to report how many calculations I had to go through in order to find a low p-value!
On average, you will find a correaltion as strong as 0.94 in 1.02E-7% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 981,675,062 random variables^Note You don't actually need 981 million 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 19 degrees of freedom, ^Note Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 19 because we have two variables measured over a period of 20 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.

[ 0.85, 0.98 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
^{Read more about the confidence interval} The confidence interval is an estimate the range of the value of the correlation coefficient, using the correlation itself as an input. The values are meant to be the low and high end of the correlation coefficient with 95% confidence.

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

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

Still, sometimes one of the variables has more years of data available than the other. This page only shows the overlapping years. To see all the years, click on "See what else correlates with..." link above.

	2002	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021
Robberies in South Carolina (Robbery rate)	140.7	139.8	130.3	133.2	136.6	144.2	147.2	126.1	108.2	99.1	95.5	83.1	83.2	80.7	82.1	77.4	70.7	64.5	59.8	49.7
US birth rates of triplets or more (Birth rate per 100,000)	183	186	180	170	156	151	148	152	138	137	124.4	119.5	113.5	103.6	101.4	101.6	93	87.7	79.6	80

Why this works

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

Try it yourself

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([140.7,139.8,130.3,133.2,136.6,144.2,147.2,126.1,108.2,99.1,95.5,83.1,83.2,80.7,82.1,77.4,70.7,64.5,59.8,49.7,])
array_2 = np.array([183,186,180,170,156,151,148,152,138,137,124.4,119.5,113.5,103.6,101.4,101.6,93,87.7,79.6,80,])
array_1_name = "Robberies in South Carolina"
array_2_name = "US birth rates of triplets or more"

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

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

Reuseable content

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

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

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

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

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

Download images for these variables:

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

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

Alternatively you can use a tool like Inkscape.
High resolution line chart, optimized for mobile
Alternative high resolution line chart
Scatterplot
Portable line chart (png)
Portable line chart (png), optimized for mobile
Line chart for only Robberies in South Carolina
Line chart for only US birth rates of triplets or more
AI-generated correlation image
The spurious research paper: The Great Caper: Investigating the Link between Robberies in South Carolina and the Birth Rate of Triplets or More in the United States

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Correlation ID: 4048 · Black Variable ID: 20216 · Red Variable ID: 55


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