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Spurious correlation #4,207 · 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 Brenda and the second variable is Arson in Oregon.  The chart goes from 1985 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

As the popularity of the name Brenda decreased, there were fewer "Brenda's on fire" jokes being made. This led to a reduced likelihood of arson-related puns, ultimately decreasing the incidence of arson in Oregon. It seems that when it comes to fire-related wordplay, the name Brenda was the spark that lit the flame of destruction!

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Create an image where a quirky cartoon-style bulletin board outside a diner in a charming, quaint Oregon town is the focal point. The bulletin board is adorned with whimsical numbers representing the popularity of the name "Brenda" over the years. Delightful graphics symbolize the decrease in "Brenda's on fire" jokes, mirrored by a noticeable decline in the frequency of arson incidents in the town. As the visual narrative unfolds, the townspeople are depicted chuckling less about fire-related puns and engaging in community-wide fire safety efforts. The declining numbers and the amused townsfolk within the scene convey a sense of a town becoming a safer and less "sparky" place. 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 Brenda and Arson in Oregon. 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: Data cyber art 3D Pixar Style Voxel art Cybernetic art Cutsy graphics
ChatGPT: Cutsy graphics

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 Brenda and Arson in Oregon, in the following situation: As the popularity of the name Brenda decreased, there were fewer "Brenda's on fire" jokes being made. This led to a reduced likelihood of arson-related puns, ultimately decreasing the incidence of arson in Oregon. It seems that when it comes to fire-related wordplay, the name Brenda was the spark that lit the flame of destruction!. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a small town in Oregon, a bulletin board outside the local diner displayed the popularity of the name Brenda over the years. As the number of "Brenda's on fire" jokes decreased, a noticeable decline in arson incidents was seen. The townspeople chuckled less about fire-related puns, and the community's fire safety awareness efforts were paying off. The numbers on the bulletin board and the decreased chatter about Brenas coincided with a decline in arson cases, leaving the town a little safer and a little less sparky.

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: [ Cutsy graphics ] and depicting this scene: In a small town in Oregon, a bulletin board outside the local diner displayed the popularity of the name Brenda over the years. As the number of "Brenda's on fire" jokes decreased, a noticeable decline in arson incidents was seen. The townspeople chuckled less about fire-related puns, and the community's fire safety awareness efforts were paying off. The numbers on the bulletin board and the decreased chatter about Brenas coincided with a decline in arson cases, leaving the town a little safer and a little less sparky. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Create an image where a quirky cartoon-style bulletin board outside a diner in a charming, quaint Oregon town is the focal point. The bulletin board is adorned with whimsical numbers representing the popularity of the name "Brenda" over the years. Delightful graphics symbolize the decrease in "Brenda's on fire" jokes, mirrored by a noticeable decline in the frequency of arson incidents in the town. As the visual narrative unfolds, the townspeople are depicted chuckling less about fire-related puns and engaging in community-wide fire safety efforts. The declining numbers and the amused townsfolk within the scene convey a sense of a town becoming a safer and less "sparky" place.

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

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

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how a decrease in Popularity of the first name Brenda caused Arson in Oregon to decrease. Include one good pun.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Brenda's in Oregon: A Tendency to Arson?

The Journal of Forensic Psychology and Criminal Behavior

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

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Brenda and Arson in Oregon. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Rhyme words in the title.

Your research team used data from US Social Security Administration and FBI Criminal Justice Information Services to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 and p < 0.01 for 1985 to 2022.

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]]
Brenda's in Oregon: A Tendency to Arson?

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the eyebrow-raising relationship between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, we aimed to ascertain if there exists a meaningful connection between the popularity of the name Brenda and arson-related activities. Our findings unveil a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022. These results prompt us to reflect on the question: could there truly be some fiery influence associated with the moniker Brenda, igniting a penchant for pyromania among certain Oregonian individuals? Our analysis encourages further investigation into the curious interplay between nomenclature and unlawful fire behavior, prompting both amusement and contemplation in equal measure.


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

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Brenda and Arson in Oregon. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Brenda's in Oregon: A Tendency to Arson?

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the eyebrow-raising relationship between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, we aimed to ascertain if there exists a meaningful connection between the popularity of the name Brenda and arson-related activities. Our findings unveil a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022. These results prompt us to reflect on the question: could there truly be some fiery influence associated with the moniker Brenda, igniting a penchant for pyromania among certain Oregonian individuals? Our analysis encourages further investigation into the curious interplay between nomenclature and unlawful fire behavior, prompting both amusement and contemplation in equal measure.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The choice of a name is a decision often laden with personal and cultural significance. Names shape our identity and can carry a weight that extends beyond mere nomenclature. In the realm of statistical analysis, one may raise an eyebrow at the prospect of discerning any meaningful relationship between something as seemingly arbitrary as a first name and the occurrence of criminal activity. However, the peculiar confluence of the name Brenda and incidents of arson in the state of Oregon has piqued our curiosity and propelled us into this investigation.

It is an intriguing premise to consider whether individuals bearing the name Brenda may harbor a latent proclivity toward arson-related behaviors. The etymology of the name Brenda derives from the Old Norse term "brandr," meaning sword, and "a" indicating a diminutive or affectionate form. Could it be that this seemingly innocuous appellation holds within it a fiery influence, fanning the flames of unlawful pyrotechnic predilections in certain individuals? Or is this mere happenstance, a statistical fluke that has captivated our attention in a whimsical manner? These are the questions that guide our inquiry.

In exploring this curious connection, we are presented with an opportunity to inject some levity into the often somber world of statistical analysis. After all, statistics need not always be a dry affair, and the unexpected juxtaposition of a seemingly mundane name and acts of arson offers a delightful twist that may just kindle a chuckle amidst the seriousness of empirical inquiry. So, with a touch of mirth and a measure of curiosity, let us embark on the journey to unravel the enigma of the Brenda-arson correlation in the beautiful state of Oregon.


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

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Brenda and Arson in Oregon. 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 name some cartoons and childrens' shows that you watched that are related to the topic.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Brenda's in Oregon: A Tendency to Arson?

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the eyebrow-raising relationship between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, we aimed to ascertain if there exists a meaningful connection between the popularity of the name Brenda and arson-related activities. Our findings unveil a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022. These results prompt us to reflect on the question: could there truly be some fiery influence associated with the moniker Brenda, igniting a penchant for pyromania among certain Oregonian individuals? Our analysis encourages further investigation into the curious interplay between nomenclature and unlawful fire behavior, prompting both amusement and contemplation in equal measure.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The choice of a name is a decision often laden with personal and cultural significance. Names shape our identity and can carry a weight that extends beyond mere nomenclature. In the realm of statistical analysis, one may raise an eyebrow at the prospect of discerning any meaningful relationship between something as seemingly arbitrary as a first name and the occurrence of criminal activity. However, the peculiar confluence of the name Brenda and incidents of arson in the state of Oregon has piqued our curiosity and propelled us into this investigation.
It is an intriguing premise to consider whether individuals bearing the name Brenda may harbor a latent proclivity toward arson-related behaviors. The etymology of the name Brenda derives from the Old Norse term "brandr," meaning sword, and "a" indicating a diminutive or affectionate form. Could it be that this seemingly innocuous appellation holds within it a fiery influence, fanning the flames of unlawful pyrotechnic predilections in certain individuals? Or is this mere happenstance, a statistical fluke that has captivated our attention in a whimsical manner? These are the questions that guide our inquiry.
In exploring this curious connection, we are presented with an opportunity to inject some levity into the often somber world of statistical analysis. After all, statistics need not always be a dry affair, and the unexpected juxtaposition of a seemingly mundane name and acts of arson offers a delightful twist that may just kindle a chuckle amidst the seriousness of empirical inquiry. So, with a touch of mirth and a measure of curiosity, let us embark on the journey to unravel the enigma of the Brenda-arson correlation in the beautiful state of Oregon.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The extant literature on the interplay between individual names and criminal behavior provides a framework for examining our specific inquiry regarding the association between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in Oregon. Smith (2008) conducted a comprehensive review of studies delving into the potential influence of nomenclature on behavioral inclinations across diverse demographic landscapes. Moreover, Doe and Jones (2015) explored the etymological implications of names and their purported psychological impact, shedding light on the intricate and often surprising connections between names and behavior.

Deepening our understanding of the potential ramifications of nomenclature and its influence on behavior, "The Name Game: Exploring the Psychology of Nomenclature" by Smith and "The Hidden Power of Names" by Doe and Jones offer profound insights. These seminal works prompt contemplation on the underlying forces shaping our behavioral tendencies and the intriguing ways in which our names may exert subtle influences on our actions.

Transitioning to a rather unorthodox yet surprisingly revealing domain is the examination of fictional works that, by virtue of their narrative explorations of human behavior, inadvertently shed light on the potential correlations between names and behavioral traits. Such works as "The Arsonist's Handbook" by Fictioneer (2012), and "Blaze: A Novel" by Wordsmith (2006) present captivating literary contexts brimming with nuanced character portrayals, inviting imaginative contemplation of the potential interplay between nomenclature and incendiary inclinations.

Delving into the world of animated content, one cannot help but recall the misadventures of the mischievous characters in "Firestarter Friends" and "The Blaze Brigade," popular children's shows that, albeit fictional, invite contemplation of the curious connections between names and proclivities toward fire-related activities. These whimsical yet thought-provoking narratives offer anecdotal evidence that, while undoubtedly light-hearted in nature, sparks contemplation of the potential associations between individuals' names and their behavioral predispositions.

As our inquiry continues, we acknowledge the unexpected and often humorously convoluted nature of our exploration into the correlation between the name Brenda and arson in Oregon. Indeed, while the nature of our investigation may at times appear lighthearted, the statistical underpinnings and scholarly deliberations underpinning this study command our serious attention, exemplifying the delightful fusion of scholarly rigor and playful imagination that animate our pursuit of knowledge.


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

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Brenda and Arson in Oregon. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from US Social Security Administration and FBI Criminal Justice Information Services . You used data from 1985 to 2022

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]]
Brenda's in Oregon: A Tendency to Arson?

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the eyebrow-raising relationship between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, we aimed to ascertain if there exists a meaningful connection between the popularity of the name Brenda and arson-related activities. Our findings unveil a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022. These results prompt us to reflect on the question: could there truly be some fiery influence associated with the moniker Brenda, igniting a penchant for pyromania among certain Oregonian individuals? Our analysis encourages further investigation into the curious interplay between nomenclature and unlawful fire behavior, prompting both amusement and contemplation in equal measure.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The choice of a name is a decision often laden with personal and cultural significance. Names shape our identity and can carry a weight that extends beyond mere nomenclature. In the realm of statistical analysis, one may raise an eyebrow at the prospect of discerning any meaningful relationship between something as seemingly arbitrary as a first name and the occurrence of criminal activity. However, the peculiar confluence of the name Brenda and incidents of arson in the state of Oregon has piqued our curiosity and propelled us into this investigation.
It is an intriguing premise to consider whether individuals bearing the name Brenda may harbor a latent proclivity toward arson-related behaviors. The etymology of the name Brenda derives from the Old Norse term "brandr," meaning sword, and "a" indicating a diminutive or affectionate form. Could it be that this seemingly innocuous appellation holds within it a fiery influence, fanning the flames of unlawful pyrotechnic predilections in certain individuals? Or is this mere happenstance, a statistical fluke that has captivated our attention in a whimsical manner? These are the questions that guide our inquiry.
In exploring this curious connection, we are presented with an opportunity to inject some levity into the often somber world of statistical analysis. After all, statistics need not always be a dry affair, and the unexpected juxtaposition of a seemingly mundane name and acts of arson offers a delightful twist that may just kindle a chuckle amidst the seriousness of empirical inquiry. So, with a touch of mirth and a measure of curiosity, let us embark on the journey to unravel the enigma of the Brenda-arson correlation in the beautiful state of Oregon.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To investigate the potential connection between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in Oregon, a comprehensive research methodology was employed. Data for this study was primarily sourced from the US Social Security Administration's database of baby names and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services' repository of arson incidents, spanning from the years 1985 to 2022. The utilization of these diverse sources aimed to ensure a robust and multifaceted approach to examining the curious interplay between nomenclature and illicit fire-related activities.

First and foremost, the frequency of the name Brenda within the state of Oregon was meticulously extracted from the US Social Security Administration's records. Given the peculiar temporal dimension of name popularity, the team employed an intricate mathematical algorithm to adjust for the ebb and flow of Brenda's prevalence over the years, accounting for factors such as cultural trends, pop culture influences, and perhaps even the rise and fall of certain Brenda-centric memes – a factor which, while not explicitly included in the analysis, certainly did not escape the team's amused contemplation.

Simultaneously, the occurrence of arson-related incidents within the state of Oregon was analyzed with a meticulous eye for nuance and detail. Acquiring this data from the FBI's Criminal Justice Information Services, the team delved into the vast repository of police reports, fire department records, and eyewitness accounts, seeking to discern any potential correlative patterns between Brenda and the propensity for pyromania. In the process, there were numerous revelations that ignited the team's intellectual curiosity, and occasionally sparked some lighthearted banter – though rest assured, these moments of levity did not detract from the rigorous nature of the analysis.

With the datasets in hand, advanced statistical methods were applied to scrutinize the relationship between the frequency of the name Brenda and the incidence of arson in Oregon, taking into account confounding variables such as socioeconomic factors, geographical distribution, and the ever-intriguing dynamics of human behavior. The team also engaged in moments of whimsy and debate over the potential metaphysical aspects of nomenclatural influence – where one member playfully postulated that perhaps the resonance of the name Brenda held an ethereal sway over certain individuals, ever so gently nudging them towards the flickering allure of forbidden flames.

In sum, the research methodology employed in this study reflects a careful balance between empirical rigor and the exuberant musings that enliven the arduous path of statistical investigation. By melding data analysis with a touch of wry humor, the team endeavored to unravel the mystery of the Brenda-arson correlation, all the while embracing the delightful unpredictability that often accompanies the pursuit of knowledge.


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

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Brenda and Arson in Oregon. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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

For the time period 1985 to 2022, you found a correlation 0.9418565, r-squared of 0.8870936, 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]]
Brenda's in Oregon: A Tendency to Arson?

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the eyebrow-raising relationship between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, we aimed to ascertain if there exists a meaningful connection between the popularity of the name Brenda and arson-related activities. Our findings unveil a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022. These results prompt us to reflect on the question: could there truly be some fiery influence associated with the moniker Brenda, igniting a penchant for pyromania among certain Oregonian individuals? Our analysis encourages further investigation into the curious interplay between nomenclature and unlawful fire behavior, prompting both amusement and contemplation in equal measure.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The choice of a name is a decision often laden with personal and cultural significance. Names shape our identity and can carry a weight that extends beyond mere nomenclature. In the realm of statistical analysis, one may raise an eyebrow at the prospect of discerning any meaningful relationship between something as seemingly arbitrary as a first name and the occurrence of criminal activity. However, the peculiar confluence of the name Brenda and incidents of arson in the state of Oregon has piqued our curiosity and propelled us into this investigation.
It is an intriguing premise to consider whether individuals bearing the name Brenda may harbor a latent proclivity toward arson-related behaviors. The etymology of the name Brenda derives from the Old Norse term "brandr," meaning sword, and "a" indicating a diminutive or affectionate form. Could it be that this seemingly innocuous appellation holds within it a fiery influence, fanning the flames of unlawful pyrotechnic predilections in certain individuals? Or is this mere happenstance, a statistical fluke that has captivated our attention in a whimsical manner? These are the questions that guide our inquiry.
In exploring this curious connection, we are presented with an opportunity to inject some levity into the often somber world of statistical analysis. After all, statistics need not always be a dry affair, and the unexpected juxtaposition of a seemingly mundane name and acts of arson offers a delightful twist that may just kindle a chuckle amidst the seriousness of empirical inquiry. So, with a touch of mirth and a measure of curiosity, let us embark on the journey to unravel the enigma of the Brenda-arson correlation in the beautiful state of Oregon.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The results of our analysis unfold with an air of intrigue, as we unveil a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. This finding, with an r-squared of 0.8870936, is certainly not one to be taken lightly and may just kindle a sense of wonder and amusement, not unlike the flickering flames of a campfire on a starry night.

The scatterplot (Fig. 1) portrays this robust correlation with undeniable clarity, as the data points coalesce into a pattern that hints at an intriguing relationship between the two variables. The scatterplot, much like a detective's magnifying glass, invites the viewer to trace the meandering path of correlation and ponder the hidden forces at play. The statistical significance, evidenced by a p-value less than 0.01, further cements the allure of this perplexing connection, beckoning us to venture further into the enigmatic realm where names and criminal proclivities intersect.

These compelling results prompt a chuckle and raise an eyebrow in equal measure, as we ponder the potential influence of a name on the actions of individuals. Embracing the unexpected and the whimsical nature of statistical inquiry, our findings lay bare a captivating correlation, urging further exploration and reflection on the fiery mysteries that may be at play in the world of nomenclature and unlawful blazes.


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

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Brenda and Arson in Oregon. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

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

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

[[TITLE]]
Brenda's in Oregon: A Tendency to Arson?

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the eyebrow-raising relationship between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, we aimed to ascertain if there exists a meaningful connection between the popularity of the name Brenda and arson-related activities. Our findings unveil a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022. These results prompt us to reflect on the question: could there truly be some fiery influence associated with the moniker Brenda, igniting a penchant for pyromania among certain Oregonian individuals? Our analysis encourages further investigation into the curious interplay between nomenclature and unlawful fire behavior, prompting both amusement and contemplation in equal measure.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The extant literature on the interplay between individual names and criminal behavior provides a framework for examining our specific inquiry regarding the association between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in Oregon. Smith (2008) conducted a comprehensive review of studies delving into the potential influence of nomenclature on behavioral inclinations across diverse demographic landscapes. Moreover, Doe and Jones (2015) explored the etymological implications of names and their purported psychological impact, shedding light on the intricate and often surprising connections between names and behavior.
Deepening our understanding of the potential ramifications of nomenclature and its influence on behavior, "The Name Game: Exploring the Psychology of Nomenclature" by Smith and "The Hidden Power of Names" by Doe and Jones offer profound insights. These seminal works prompt contemplation on the underlying forces shaping our behavioral tendencies and the intriguing ways in which our names may exert subtle influences on our actions.
Transitioning to a rather unorthodox yet surprisingly revealing domain is the examination of fictional works that, by virtue of their narrative explorations of human behavior, inadvertently shed light on the potential correlations between names and behavioral traits. Such works as "The Arsonist's Handbook" by Fictioneer (2012), and "Blaze: A Novel" by Wordsmith (2006) present captivating literary contexts brimming with nuanced character portrayals, inviting imaginative contemplation of the potential interplay between nomenclature and incendiary inclinations.
Delving into the world of animated content, one cannot help but recall the misadventures of the mischievous characters in "Firestarter Friends" and "The Blaze Brigade," popular children's shows that, albeit fictional, invite contemplation of the curious connections between names and proclivities toward fire-related activities. These whimsical yet thought-provoking narratives offer anecdotal evidence that, while undoubtedly light-hearted in nature, sparks contemplation of the potential associations between individuals' names and their behavioral predispositions.
As our inquiry continues, we acknowledge the unexpected and often humorously convoluted nature of our exploration into the correlation between the name Brenda and arson in Oregon. Indeed, while the nature of our investigation may at times appear lighthearted, the statistical underpinnings and scholarly deliberations underpinning this study command our serious attention, exemplifying the delightful fusion of scholarly rigor and playful imagination that animate our pursuit of knowledge.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our analysis unfold with an air of intrigue, as we unveil a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. This finding, with an r-squared of 0.8870936, is certainly not one to be taken lightly and may just kindle a sense of wonder and amusement, not unlike the flickering flames of a campfire on a starry night.
The scatterplot (Fig. 1) portrays this robust correlation with undeniable clarity, as the data points coalesce into a pattern that hints at an intriguing relationship between the two variables. The scatterplot, much like a detective's magnifying glass, invites the viewer to trace the meandering path of correlation and ponder the hidden forces at play. The statistical significance, evidenced by a p-value less than 0.01, further cements the allure of this perplexing connection, beckoning us to venture further into the enigmatic realm where names and criminal proclivities intersect.
These compelling results prompt a chuckle and raise an eyebrow in equal measure, as we ponder the potential influence of a name on the actions of individuals. Embracing the unexpected and the whimsical nature of statistical inquiry, our findings lay bare a captivating correlation, urging further exploration and reflection on the fiery mysteries that may be at play in the world of nomenclature and unlawful blazes.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The results of our study have illuminated a striking correlation between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. This finding extends and supports the existing literature that has delved into the potential influence of nomenclature on behavioral inclinations. Smith's (2008) comprehensive review and Doe and Jones' (2015) exploration of the etymological implications of names provide a backdrop for understanding the unexpected connection we have unearthed. Indeed, our findings bolster the insightful inquiries of these esteemed scholars, affirming the profound and often surprising connections between names and behavior.

The robust correlation coefficient of 0.9418565, coupled with a p-value less than 0.01, underlines a compelling relationship between the prevalence of the name Brenda and arson-related activities in Oregon. This statistical significance aligns with the amusing and contemplative insights offered by the works of Fictioneer (2012), Wordsmith (2006), and the creators of "Firestarter Friends" and "The Blaze Brigade," wherein narrative explorations inadvertently invite reflection on the curious connections between names and proclivities toward fire-related activities.

Our findings challenge us to consider the potential interplay between nomenclature and unlawful fire behavior, evoking a sense of amusement and contemplation in equal measure. While our investigation may at times appear whimsical, the statistical rigor and scholarly underpinnings of this study command our serious attention, exemplifying the delightful fusion of scholarly inquiry and playful imagination. The scatterplot, akin to a veritable detective's magnifying glass, draws attention to this intriguing relationship, inviting further inquiry into the enigmatic realm where names and criminal proclivities intersect.

In conclusion, our study has shed light on a fascinating correlation, prompting both amusement and contemplation. The fiery mysteries at play in the world of nomenclature and unlawful blazes beckon further investigation, offering a captivating avenue for future research endeavors.


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

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Brenda and Arson in Oregon. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
Brenda's in Oregon: A Tendency to Arson?

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the eyebrow-raising relationship between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, we aimed to ascertain if there exists a meaningful connection between the popularity of the name Brenda and arson-related activities. Our findings unveil a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022. These results prompt us to reflect on the question: could there truly be some fiery influence associated with the moniker Brenda, igniting a penchant for pyromania among certain Oregonian individuals? Our analysis encourages further investigation into the curious interplay between nomenclature and unlawful fire behavior, prompting both amusement and contemplation in equal measure.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The choice of a name is a decision often laden with personal and cultural significance. Names shape our identity and can carry a weight that extends beyond mere nomenclature. In the realm of statistical analysis, one may raise an eyebrow at the prospect of discerning any meaningful relationship between something as seemingly arbitrary as a first name and the occurrence of criminal activity. However, the peculiar confluence of the name Brenda and incidents of arson in the state of Oregon has piqued our curiosity and propelled us into this investigation.
It is an intriguing premise to consider whether individuals bearing the name Brenda may harbor a latent proclivity toward arson-related behaviors. The etymology of the name Brenda derives from the Old Norse term "brandr," meaning sword, and "a" indicating a diminutive or affectionate form. Could it be that this seemingly innocuous appellation holds within it a fiery influence, fanning the flames of unlawful pyrotechnic predilections in certain individuals? Or is this mere happenstance, a statistical fluke that has captivated our attention in a whimsical manner? These are the questions that guide our inquiry.
In exploring this curious connection, we are presented with an opportunity to inject some levity into the often somber world of statistical analysis. After all, statistics need not always be a dry affair, and the unexpected juxtaposition of a seemingly mundane name and acts of arson offers a delightful twist that may just kindle a chuckle amidst the seriousness of empirical inquiry. So, with a touch of mirth and a measure of curiosity, let us embark on the journey to unravel the enigma of the Brenda-arson correlation in the beautiful state of Oregon.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our analysis unfold with an air of intrigue, as we unveil a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. This finding, with an r-squared of 0.8870936, is certainly not one to be taken lightly and may just kindle a sense of wonder and amusement, not unlike the flickering flames of a campfire on a starry night.
The scatterplot (Fig. 1) portrays this robust correlation with undeniable clarity, as the data points coalesce into a pattern that hints at an intriguing relationship between the two variables. The scatterplot, much like a detective's magnifying glass, invites the viewer to trace the meandering path of correlation and ponder the hidden forces at play. The statistical significance, evidenced by a p-value less than 0.01, further cements the allure of this perplexing connection, beckoning us to venture further into the enigmatic realm where names and criminal proclivities intersect.
These compelling results prompt a chuckle and raise an eyebrow in equal measure, as we ponder the potential influence of a name on the actions of individuals. Embracing the unexpected and the whimsical nature of statistical inquiry, our findings lay bare a captivating correlation, urging further exploration and reflection on the fiery mysteries that may be at play in the world of nomenclature and unlawful blazes.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our investigation into the connection between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in Oregon has illuminated a remarkably strong correlation. The findings leave us pondering whether there exists a fiery influence associated with the moniker Brenda, perhaps igniting a penchant for pyromania among certain Oregonian individuals. The robust correlation coefficient, coupled with the statistical significance of our results, lends credence to the notion that there may be more at play than mere coincidence.

The whimsical juxtaposition of a seemingly mundane name and acts of arson offers a delightful twist that may just kindle a chuckle amidst the seriousness of empirical inquiry. As the flames of curiosity flicker, we must acknowledge the unusual nature of this correlation and its potential implications. The allure of uncovering such unexpected associations in the realm of statistical analysis reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge is not devoid of amusement and wonderment.

However, while our findings provoke a sense of intrigue and amusement, it is important to note the limitations of our study. Correlation does not imply causation, and the intricacies of human behavior are far from straightforward. It is entirely possible that this correlation is but a statistical fluke, a curious quirk that has captured our imagination in a playful manner.

In light of these findings, further research into the influence of names on criminal proclivities may warrant attention, but as for the Brenda-arson correlation in Oregon, it seems that we have kindled enough amusement and contemplation for the time being. Perhaps it is best to let this particular caper rest, allowing the flames of curiosity to flicker in other unexplored territories of statistical inquiry.


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 Brenda's in Oregon: A Tendency to Arson?. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Forensic Psychology and Criminal Behavior


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 Brenda's in Oregon: A Tendency to Arson?. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for the Study of Eccentric Behavior


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 Brenda's in Oregon: A Tendency to Arson? with an abstract of This study delves into the eyebrow-raising relationship between the prevalence of the first name Brenda and the incidence of arson in the state of Oregon. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, we aimed to ascertain if there exists a meaningful connection between the popularity of the name Brenda and arson-related activities. Our findings unveil a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9418565 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 1985 to 2022. These results prompt us to reflect on the question: could there truly be some fiery influence associated with the moniker Brenda, igniting a penchant for pyromania among certain Oregonian individuals? Our analysis encourages further investigation into the curious interplay between nomenclature and unlawful fire behavior, prompting both amusement and contemplation in equal measure.

ChatGPT:

Brenda, Oregon, arson, relationship, prevalence, incidence, first name, data, US Social Security Administration, FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, correlation coefficient, p-value, pyromania, nomenclature, unlawful fire behavior, investigation

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

Arson in Oregon
Detailed data title: The arson rate per 100,000 residents in Oregon
Source: FBI Criminal Justice Information Services
See what else correlates with Arson in Oregon

Correlation r = 0.9418565 (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 = 0.8870936 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 88.7% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Arson in Oregon) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Popularity of the first name Brenda) over the 38 years from 1985 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 1.2E-18. 0.0000000000000000012424461789
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 0.94 in 1.2E-16% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 804,863,837,953,407,616 random variables You don't actually need 804 quadrillion 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 37 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 37 because we have two variables measured over a period of 38 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.

[ 0.89, 0.97 ] 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.
19851986198719881989199019911992199319941995199619971998199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022
Popularity of the first name Brenda (Babies born)24232290219723272314266526782855291926832639242721702142197918981741155614491671166814191236968780735546561439384349340294257236180197187
Arson in Oregon (Arson rate)55.952.547.443.849.450.651.856.952.8555548.147.547.646.448.845.537.73738.637.935.237.530.730.726.626.525.620.620.614.222.32424.321.632.134.329




Why this works

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




Try it yourself

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([2423,2290,2197,2327,2314,2665,2678,2855,2919,2683,2639,2427,2170,2142,1979,1898,1741,1556,1449,1671,1668,1419,1236,968,780,735,546,561,439,384,349,340,294,257,236,180,197,187,])
array_2 = np.array([55.9,52.5,47.4,43.8,49.4,50.6,51.8,56.9,52.8,55,55,48.1,47.5,47.6,46.4,48.8,45.5,37.7,37,38.6,37.9,35.2,37.5,30.7,30.7,26.6,26.5,25.6,20.6,20.6,14.2,22.3,24,24.3,21.6,32.1,34.3,29,])
array_1_name = "Popularity of the first name Brenda"
array_2_name = "Arson in Oregon"

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

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



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

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

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Correlation ID: 4207 · Black Variable ID: 2247 · Red Variable ID: 20066
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