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Spurious correlation #4,605 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia and the second variable is Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year.  The chart goes from 1995 to 2003, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
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AI explanation

As air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia increased, more people experienced minor respiratory irritation, leading to an uptick in movie theater visits as they sought refuge in the dark, air-conditioned cinemas. The popularity of the top movie of the year soared as a result, proving that sometimes, even a haze-filled silver lining can lead to blockbuster success. Remember, this is just a tongue-in-cheek connection and should not be taken seriously!

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate an image in the style of a vintage Polaroid photo showing a line of people extending down a bustling street in Blacksburg, Virginia. The hazy sky overhead is filled with smog, creating an air of discomfort. The people in the line are eagerly waiting outside the local movie theater, seeking solace from the polluted atmosphere. The theater's marquee stands out, invitingly lit, promising a break from the smoggy city. The muted, retro tones and soft focus of the Polaroid evoke a sense of nostalgia and the longing for escape. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.
This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia and Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year. 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: a meme a Polaroid photo Sci-fi fantacy Glitch art Cutsy art illustration
ChatGPT: a Polaroid photo

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia and Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year, in the following situation: As air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia increased, more people experienced minor respiratory irritation, leading to an uptick in movie theater visits as they sought refuge in the dark, air-conditioned cinemas. The popularity of the top movie of the year soared as a result, proving that sometimes, even a haze-filled silver lining can lead to blockbuster success. Remember, this is just a tongue-in-cheek connection and should not be taken seriously!. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In Blacksburg, Virginia, a hazy sky fills the air with pollution, creating a slightly uncomfortable atmosphere for the residents. As a result, the local movie theater sees a surge in ticket sales. A line of people can be seen outside the theater, eagerly awaiting a break from the smog as they seek solace in the cool, dimly lit auditorium.

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 Polaroid photo ] and depicting this scene: In Blacksburg, Virginia, a hazy sky fills the air with pollution, creating a slightly uncomfortable atmosphere for the residents. As a result, the local movie theater sees a surge in ticket sales. A line of people can be seen outside the theater, eagerly awaiting a break from the smog as they seek solace in the cool, dimly lit auditorium. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate an image in the style of a vintage Polaroid photo showing a line of people extending down a bustling street in Blacksburg, Virginia. The hazy sky overhead is filled with smog, creating an air of discomfort. The people in the line are eagerly waiting outside the local movie theater, seeking solace from the polluted atmosphere. The theater's marquee stands out, invitingly lit, promising a break from the smoggy city. The muted, retro tones and soft focus of the Polaroid evoke a sense of nostalgia and the longing for escape.

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

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

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how increases in Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia positively influenced Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year.\Make it sound serious until the end.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Clear Skies, Full Theaters: Investigating the Relationship Between Air Quality and Box Office Success in Blacksburg, Virginia

Journal of Atmospheric Aesthetics

Jan 2024

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




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

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia and Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Make the title seem clever.

Your research team used data from Environmental Protection Agency and The Numbers to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.8480983 and p < 0.01 for 1995 to 2003.

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]]
Clear Skies, Full Theaters: Investigating the Relationship Between Air Quality and Box Office Success in Blacksburg, Virginia

[[ABSTRACT]]
The entertainment industry, much like the stock market, can be influenced by numerous external factors. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to investigate the potential relationship between air pollution levels and box office success in Blacksburg, Virginia. Leveraging data sourced from the Environmental Protection Agency and The Numbers, we examined the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the year's top movie from 1995 to 2003. Surprisingly, the results revealed a statistically significant correlation, with a coefficient of 0.8480983 and p < 0.01, indicating a strong association between higher air pollution levels and increased ticket sales for the top movie of the year. While these findings are certainly intriguing, causation cannot be definitively established, and further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms at play. This research may provide valuable insights for movie producers, entertainment analysts, and environmental policy makers, offering a breath of fresh air in understanding the curious dynamics of the box office.


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

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia and Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year. 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]]
Clear Skies, Full Theaters: Investigating the Relationship Between Air Quality and Box Office Success in Blacksburg, Virginia

[[ABSTRACT]]
The entertainment industry, much like the stock market, can be influenced by numerous external factors. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to investigate the potential relationship between air pollution levels and box office success in Blacksburg, Virginia. Leveraging data sourced from the Environmental Protection Agency and The Numbers, we examined the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the year's top movie from 1995 to 2003. Surprisingly, the results revealed a statistically significant correlation, with a coefficient of 0.8480983 and p < 0.01, indicating a strong association between higher air pollution levels and increased ticket sales for the top movie of the year. While these findings are certainly intriguing, causation cannot be definitively established, and further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms at play. This research may provide valuable insights for movie producers, entertainment analysts, and environmental policy makers, offering a breath of fresh air in understanding the curious dynamics of the box office.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

As the saying goes, "The show must go on," but could the quality of the air in a town influence the show's success at the box office? In the entertainment industry, where the spotlight is often on star power and gripping storylines, it might come as a surprise that something as seemingly mundane as air pollution could have an impact on ticket sales. However, as researchers, we know that often the most unexpected factors can play a role in shaping consumer behavior.

The hustle and bustle of life in Blacksburg, Virginia, is not immune to the effects of air pollution, with its own blend of urban and rural air quality challenges. While it's common knowledge that air pollution can have detrimental effects on public health and the environment, its potential influence on the success of blockbuster movies might seem like a punchline rather than a serious inquiry. Nonetheless, as dedicated scholars, we must entertain the possibility that not all factors affecting consumer choices are immediately obvious.

This study delves into the intersection of air quality and box office sales, seeking to understand whether there is a meaningful relationship between these seemingly disparate domains. By examining the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the top movie of the year, we embark on a journey to uncover the hidden connections between air pollution and the allure of the silver screen. While the data may suggest a correlation between air pollution levels and box office success, we must tread cautiously, as correlation does not always imply causation. After all, we wouldn't want to jump to conclusions faster than the latest action hero leaps off a building.

In the following sections, we will meticulously explore the methodology, results, and implications of our findings. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of statistical analyses and interpretive discussions, let's take a moment to appreciate the irony of potentially finding that "polluted air" could be a breath of fresh air for movie sales, and that in the world of entertainment, even the atmosphere can play a starring role. So, grab your popcorn and buckle up as we journey through the murky haze of air pollution to uncover the surprising connections it may have with the bright lights of the cinema.


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

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia and Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year. 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 movies that you watched that are tangentially related to the topic.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Clear Skies, Full Theaters: Investigating the Relationship Between Air Quality and Box Office Success in Blacksburg, Virginia

[[ABSTRACT]]
The entertainment industry, much like the stock market, can be influenced by numerous external factors. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to investigate the potential relationship between air pollution levels and box office success in Blacksburg, Virginia. Leveraging data sourced from the Environmental Protection Agency and The Numbers, we examined the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the year's top movie from 1995 to 2003. Surprisingly, the results revealed a statistically significant correlation, with a coefficient of 0.8480983 and p < 0.01, indicating a strong association between higher air pollution levels and increased ticket sales for the top movie of the year. While these findings are certainly intriguing, causation cannot be definitively established, and further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms at play. This research may provide valuable insights for movie producers, entertainment analysts, and environmental policy makers, offering a breath of fresh air in understanding the curious dynamics of the box office.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
As the saying goes, "The show must go on," but could the quality of the air in a town influence the show's success at the box office? In the entertainment industry, where the spotlight is often on star power and gripping storylines, it might come as a surprise that something as seemingly mundane as air pollution could have an impact on ticket sales. However, as researchers, we know that often the most unexpected factors can play a role in shaping consumer behavior.
The hustle and bustle of life in Blacksburg, Virginia, is not immune to the effects of air pollution, with its own blend of urban and rural air quality challenges. While it's common knowledge that air pollution can have detrimental effects on public health and the environment, its potential influence on the success of blockbuster movies might seem like a punchline rather than a serious inquiry. Nonetheless, as dedicated scholars, we must entertain the possibility that not all factors affecting consumer choices are immediately obvious.
This study delves into the intersection of air quality and box office sales, seeking to understand whether there is a meaningful relationship between these seemingly disparate domains. By examining the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the top movie of the year, we embark on a journey to uncover the hidden connections between air pollution and the allure of the silver screen. While the data may suggest a correlation between air pollution levels and box office success, we must tread cautiously, as correlation does not always imply causation. After all, we wouldn't want to jump to conclusions faster than the latest action hero leaps off a building.
In the following sections, we will meticulously explore the methodology, results, and implications of our findings. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of statistical analyses and interpretive discussions, let's take a moment to appreciate the irony of potentially finding that "polluted air" could be a breath of fresh air for movie sales, and that in the world of entertainment, even the atmosphere can play a starring role. So, grab your popcorn and buckle up as we journey through the murky haze of air pollution to uncover the surprising connections it may have with the bright lights of the cinema.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

Previous research has explored the relationship between environmental factors and consumer behavior, shedding light on the intricate linkages that exist between seemingly unrelated phenomena. Smith et al. (2017) investigated the impact of air pollution on urban communities and noted potential effects on various aspects of societal life, including consumer preferences. In a similar vein, Doe (2015) delved into the psychological implications of environmental distress, uncovering subtle shifts in decision-making processes under differing air quality conditions.

Moving from the domain of non-fiction research, it's worth noting the insights from popular literature that may offer unconventional perspectives on this inquiry. "The Air We Breathe: A Comprehensive Analysis of Atmospheric Impacts" by Jones (2019) provides a detailed overview of air quality dynamics and their potential ramifications, while "Pollution and Popcorn: Unearthing the Environmental-entertainment Nexus" by Bogus (2018) presents a satirical take on the unexpected interplay between pollution and popular culture.

In a departure from the expected sources, we also draw attention to fictional works that, while not grounded in empirical data, often reflect societal attitudes and perceptions. Fictional books like "Smog City Mysteries" and "The Polluted Picture Palace" offer whimsical accounts that, while not scientifically rigorous, underscore the pervasiveness of air quality concerns in popular imagination.

Furthermore, our own experiences with cinema-going provide anecdotal evidence of potential links between air pollution and movie preferences. Titles like "The Toxic Ticket Sales" and "The Hazy Hit" come to mind, emblematic of our exploration into the less tangible, yet intriguing, facets of movie success and environmental conditions.

As we embark on this unconventional investigation, we cannot overlook the influence of cinematic productions that have captured our attention. Films such as "Blade Runner" and "The Mist" prompt contemplation of the blurred boundaries between on-screen depictions of atmospheric phenomena and real-life environmental experiences. While these movies may not directly align with our study's focus, they serve as reminders of the enduring intrigue surrounding the atmospheric and its impact on human narratives.

In synthesizing these varied perspectives, we are reminded of the multifaceted nature of our inquiry, where empirical research converges with literary musings and cinematic spectacles. This interdisciplinary approach sets the stage for our rigorous examination of the relationship between air pollution and box office success in Blacksburg, Virginia, allowing us to consider the unexpected twists and turns that this investigation may uncover.


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

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia and Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year. 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 Environmental Protection Agency and The Numbers . You used data from 1995 to 2003

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]]
Clear Skies, Full Theaters: Investigating the Relationship Between Air Quality and Box Office Success in Blacksburg, Virginia

[[ABSTRACT]]
The entertainment industry, much like the stock market, can be influenced by numerous external factors. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to investigate the potential relationship between air pollution levels and box office success in Blacksburg, Virginia. Leveraging data sourced from the Environmental Protection Agency and The Numbers, we examined the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the year's top movie from 1995 to 2003. Surprisingly, the results revealed a statistically significant correlation, with a coefficient of 0.8480983 and p < 0.01, indicating a strong association between higher air pollution levels and increased ticket sales for the top movie of the year. While these findings are certainly intriguing, causation cannot be definitively established, and further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms at play. This research may provide valuable insights for movie producers, entertainment analysts, and environmental policy makers, offering a breath of fresh air in understanding the curious dynamics of the box office.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
As the saying goes, "The show must go on," but could the quality of the air in a town influence the show's success at the box office? In the entertainment industry, where the spotlight is often on star power and gripping storylines, it might come as a surprise that something as seemingly mundane as air pollution could have an impact on ticket sales. However, as researchers, we know that often the most unexpected factors can play a role in shaping consumer behavior.
The hustle and bustle of life in Blacksburg, Virginia, is not immune to the effects of air pollution, with its own blend of urban and rural air quality challenges. While it's common knowledge that air pollution can have detrimental effects on public health and the environment, its potential influence on the success of blockbuster movies might seem like a punchline rather than a serious inquiry. Nonetheless, as dedicated scholars, we must entertain the possibility that not all factors affecting consumer choices are immediately obvious.
This study delves into the intersection of air quality and box office sales, seeking to understand whether there is a meaningful relationship between these seemingly disparate domains. By examining the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the top movie of the year, we embark on a journey to uncover the hidden connections between air pollution and the allure of the silver screen. While the data may suggest a correlation between air pollution levels and box office success, we must tread cautiously, as correlation does not always imply causation. After all, we wouldn't want to jump to conclusions faster than the latest action hero leaps off a building.
In the following sections, we will meticulously explore the methodology, results, and implications of our findings. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of statistical analyses and interpretive discussions, let's take a moment to appreciate the irony of potentially finding that "polluted air" could be a breath of fresh air for movie sales, and that in the world of entertainment, even the atmosphere can play a starring role. So, grab your popcorn and buckle up as we journey through the murky haze of air pollution to uncover the surprising connections it may have with the bright lights of the cinema.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

Data Collection:
Our research team embarked on a virtual journey through the digital expanse, traversing the vast landscapes of the internet to gather the pertinent data for this investigation. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was our primary source for air quality index (AQI) data, providing invaluable insights into the atmospheric conditions experienced by the residents of Blacksburg, Virginia. Simultaneously, The Numbers served as our beacon of light in the tumultuous sea of box office statistics, offering a comprehensive record of the number of tickets sold for the top movie of the year from 1995 to 2003. We must express our gratitude to these digital custodians of knowledge, whose databases are a treasure trove for curious researchers exploring the unexpected connections in the world.

Air Quality Index:
The AQI, a concoction of various air pollutants, served as our compass in navigating the atmospheric labyrinth. We procured the daily AQI values from the EPA, representing the levels of pollutants such as particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone, which collectively create the symphony of air quality variations. We meticulously amassed this data as a testament to our dedication to leaving no particle unturned in our pursuit of understanding the potential impact of air quality on cinematic enterprises.

Ticket Sales for the Top Movie:
In tandem with our exploration of atmospheric conditions, we delved into the enigmatic world of box office figures, focusing our attention on the number of tickets sold for the top movie of each year. The Numbers proved to be an indispensable resource, furnishing us with the empirical evidence of moviegoers' preferences during this period. As we sifted through the numerical harvest of blockbuster fervor, we remained ever vigilant for any kernels of insight that might elucidate the quirks of consumer behavior in the face of atmospheric circumstances.

Data Analysis:
No quest for knowledge would be complete without the wielders of statistical tools, and in our case, we sought the mastery of correlation analyses to unravel the potential relationship between air pollution levels and box office success. With the aid of statistical software that shall remain nameless in its neutrality, we calculated the correlation coefficient and corresponding p-values, allowing us to discern the strength and significance of any apparent link between air quality and ticket sales. Our rigorous approach to data analysis was akin to an intrepid explorer charting uncharted territories, arming ourselves with academic rigor and a sprinkling of scientific curiosity as our trusted companions.

Ethical Considerations:
Before we conclude this section, it is paramount to underline the ethical underpinning of our research, grounded in the bedrock of integrity and intellectual honesty. While the allure of uncovering unconventional connections may beckon, we must always remain cognizant of the potential implications of our findings and the responsibility that comes with knowledge. Our exploration into the impact of air quality on cinematic fortunes is conducted with the utmost respect for the subjects and communities involved, adhering to the principles of academic inquiry and scholarly probity.

Having armed ourselves with data and statistical arsenal, we are now prepared to turn our gaze toward the enigmatic results that emerged from our foray into the unexpected interplay between air pollution and cinema. The journey continues, and within the foggy mists of research, we strive to carve clarity from ambiguity and illuminate the peculiar pathways of human behavior.


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

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia and Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year. 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 Environmental Protection Agency and The Numbers .

For the time period 1995 to 2003, you found a correlation 0.8480983, r-squared of 0.7192708, 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]]
Clear Skies, Full Theaters: Investigating the Relationship Between Air Quality and Box Office Success in Blacksburg, Virginia

[[ABSTRACT]]
The entertainment industry, much like the stock market, can be influenced by numerous external factors. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to investigate the potential relationship between air pollution levels and box office success in Blacksburg, Virginia. Leveraging data sourced from the Environmental Protection Agency and The Numbers, we examined the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the year's top movie from 1995 to 2003. Surprisingly, the results revealed a statistically significant correlation, with a coefficient of 0.8480983 and p < 0.01, indicating a strong association between higher air pollution levels and increased ticket sales for the top movie of the year. While these findings are certainly intriguing, causation cannot be definitively established, and further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms at play. This research may provide valuable insights for movie producers, entertainment analysts, and environmental policy makers, offering a breath of fresh air in understanding the curious dynamics of the box office.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
As the saying goes, "The show must go on," but could the quality of the air in a town influence the show's success at the box office? In the entertainment industry, where the spotlight is often on star power and gripping storylines, it might come as a surprise that something as seemingly mundane as air pollution could have an impact on ticket sales. However, as researchers, we know that often the most unexpected factors can play a role in shaping consumer behavior.
The hustle and bustle of life in Blacksburg, Virginia, is not immune to the effects of air pollution, with its own blend of urban and rural air quality challenges. While it's common knowledge that air pollution can have detrimental effects on public health and the environment, its potential influence on the success of blockbuster movies might seem like a punchline rather than a serious inquiry. Nonetheless, as dedicated scholars, we must entertain the possibility that not all factors affecting consumer choices are immediately obvious.
This study delves into the intersection of air quality and box office sales, seeking to understand whether there is a meaningful relationship between these seemingly disparate domains. By examining the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the top movie of the year, we embark on a journey to uncover the hidden connections between air pollution and the allure of the silver screen. While the data may suggest a correlation between air pollution levels and box office success, we must tread cautiously, as correlation does not always imply causation. After all, we wouldn't want to jump to conclusions faster than the latest action hero leaps off a building.
In the following sections, we will meticulously explore the methodology, results, and implications of our findings. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of statistical analyses and interpretive discussions, let's take a moment to appreciate the irony of potentially finding that "polluted air" could be a breath of fresh air for movie sales, and that in the world of entertainment, even the atmosphere can play a starring role. So, grab your popcorn and buckle up as we journey through the murky haze of air pollution to uncover the surprising connections it may have with the bright lights of the cinema.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

Our statistical analyses yielded some unexpected, and possibly breath-taking, findings. We found a strong correlation of 0.8480983 between air pollution levels, here represented by the air quality index, and the number of tickets sold for the top movie of the year in Blacksburg, Virginia from 1995 to 2003. The coefficient of determination, or R-squared value, stood at 0.7192708, indicating that approximately 72% of the variability in ticket sales for the top movie could be explained by the variation in air pollution levels.

Now, as much as we'd like to attribute the surge in movie ticket sales to the gripping plotlines and spellbinding performances, our data seem to suggest that the murkier the air, the clearer the preference for box office hits. It appears that the phrase "hazy is as hazy does" might indeed apply here.

Furthermore, our analysis revealed that the observed association between air pollution and increased ticket sales was highly statistically significant, with a p-value of less than 0.01. In simpler terms, the likelihood of such a strong relationship occurring by chance is less than 1 in 100, proving that these results are not just blowing in the wind.

In Figure 1, our scatterplot vividly illustrates the positive linear relationship between air pollution levels and tickets sold for the top movie of the year, providing a snapshot of the "clear skies, full theaters" phenomenon we've unearthed.

Our findings certainly paint an intriguing picture of the interplay between air quality and box office success. However, as any good researcher knows, correlation does not imply causation. Before we start recommending smog machines as the next big thing in movie marketing, further investigation is essential to unravel the underlying mechanisms driving this unexpected correlation. Perhaps it's the hazy setting that makes the silver screen sparkle a bit brighter, or maybe there's a psychological element at play, where moviegoers seek escapism in the midst of atmospheric adversity.

This unexpected finding sheds a different light on the dynamics of the entertainment industry in a manner that, dare we say, transcends the conventional wisdom. Perhaps it's time to see the world of box office influence through a different lens, quite literally, as we navigate the foggy conundrum of air pollution's unexpected ties to the silver screen.


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

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia and Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year. 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]]
Clear Skies, Full Theaters: Investigating the Relationship Between Air Quality and Box Office Success in Blacksburg, Virginia

[[ABSTRACT]]
The entertainment industry, much like the stock market, can be influenced by numerous external factors. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to investigate the potential relationship between air pollution levels and box office success in Blacksburg, Virginia. Leveraging data sourced from the Environmental Protection Agency and The Numbers, we examined the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the year's top movie from 1995 to 2003. Surprisingly, the results revealed a statistically significant correlation, with a coefficient of 0.8480983 and p < 0.01, indicating a strong association between higher air pollution levels and increased ticket sales for the top movie of the year. While these findings are certainly intriguing, causation cannot be definitively established, and further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms at play. This research may provide valuable insights for movie producers, entertainment analysts, and environmental policy makers, offering a breath of fresh air in understanding the curious dynamics of the box office.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
Previous research has explored the relationship between environmental factors and consumer behavior, shedding light on the intricate linkages that exist between seemingly unrelated phenomena. Smith et al. (2017) investigated the impact of air pollution on urban communities and noted potential effects on various aspects of societal life, including consumer preferences. In a similar vein, Doe (2015) delved into the psychological implications of environmental distress, uncovering subtle shifts in decision-making processes under differing air quality conditions.
Moving from the domain of non-fiction research, it's worth noting the insights from popular literature that may offer unconventional perspectives on this inquiry. "The Air We Breathe: A Comprehensive Analysis of Atmospheric Impacts" by Jones (2019) provides a detailed overview of air quality dynamics and their potential ramifications, while "Pollution and Popcorn: Unearthing the Environmental-entertainment Nexus" by Bogus (2018) presents a satirical take on the unexpected interplay between pollution and popular culture.
In a departure from the expected sources, we also draw attention to fictional works that, while not grounded in empirical data, often reflect societal attitudes and perceptions. Fictional books like "Smog City Mysteries" and "The Polluted Picture Palace" offer whimsical accounts that, while not scientifically rigorous, underscore the pervasiveness of air quality concerns in popular imagination.
Furthermore, our own experiences with cinema-going provide anecdotal evidence of potential links between air pollution and movie preferences. Titles like "The Toxic Ticket Sales" and "The Hazy Hit" come to mind, emblematic of our exploration into the less tangible, yet intriguing, facets of movie success and environmental conditions.
As we embark on this unconventional investigation, we cannot overlook the influence of cinematic productions that have captured our attention. Films such as "Blade Runner" and "The Mist" prompt contemplation of the blurred boundaries between on-screen depictions of atmospheric phenomena and real-life environmental experiences. While these movies may not directly align with our study's focus, they serve as reminders of the enduring intrigue surrounding the atmospheric and its impact on human narratives.
In synthesizing these varied perspectives, we are reminded of the multifaceted nature of our inquiry, where empirical research converges with literary musings and cinematic spectacles. This interdisciplinary approach sets the stage for our rigorous examination of the relationship between air pollution and box office success in Blacksburg, Virginia, allowing us to consider the unexpected twists and turns that this investigation may uncover.

[[RESULTS]]
Our statistical analyses yielded some unexpected, and possibly breath-taking, findings. We found a strong correlation of 0.8480983 between air pollution levels, here represented by the air quality index, and the number of tickets sold for the top movie of the year in Blacksburg, Virginia from 1995 to 2003. The coefficient of determination, or R-squared value, stood at 0.7192708, indicating that approximately 72% of the variability in ticket sales for the top movie could be explained by the variation in air pollution levels.
Now, as much as we'd like to attribute the surge in movie ticket sales to the gripping plotlines and spellbinding performances, our data seem to suggest that the murkier the air, the clearer the preference for box office hits. It appears that the phrase "hazy is as hazy does" might indeed apply here.
Furthermore, our analysis revealed that the observed association between air pollution and increased ticket sales was highly statistically significant, with a p-value of less than 0.01. In simpler terms, the likelihood of such a strong relationship occurring by chance is less than 1 in 100, proving that these results are not just blowing in the wind.
In Figure 1, our scatterplot vividly illustrates the positive linear relationship between air pollution levels and tickets sold for the top movie of the year, providing a snapshot of the "clear skies, full theaters" phenomenon we've unearthed.
Our findings certainly paint an intriguing picture of the interplay between air quality and box office success. However, as any good researcher knows, correlation does not imply causation. Before we start recommending smog machines as the next big thing in movie marketing, further investigation is essential to unravel the underlying mechanisms driving this unexpected correlation. Perhaps it's the hazy setting that makes the silver screen sparkle a bit brighter, or maybe there's a psychological element at play, where moviegoers seek escapism in the midst of atmospheric adversity.
This unexpected finding sheds a different light on the dynamics of the entertainment industry in a manner that, dare we say, transcends the conventional wisdom. Perhaps it's time to see the world of box office influence through a different lens, quite literally, as we navigate the foggy conundrum of air pollution's unexpected ties to the silver screen.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The results of our investigation into the relationship between air quality and box office success present some tantalizing prospects and witty observations. While the connection between air pollution and ticket sales for the top movie of the year in Blacksburg, Virginia may initially seem as clear as a summer day, unpacking the nuanced implications and potential mechanisms underlying this relationship requires a closer examination.

The findings from our study are not devoid of humor, with the unexpected positive correlation between air pollution levels and ticket sales casting the shadow of the spotlight on the atmospheric and cinematic interplay. As we delve into the discussion, we are reminded of the whimsical titles from popular literature and fictional works that may have sown the seeds of our rigorous inquiry. The satirical take on "Pollution and Popcorn: Unearthing the Environmental-entertainment Nexus" by Bogus (2018) suddenly doesn't seem quite as outlandish when confronted with our statistically significant correlation.

Furthermore, the unconventional application of the phrase "hazy is as hazy does" in our interpretation of the data highlights the potential for the unexpected and the often unexplored facets of research to yield insightful revelations. It seems that a little haze in the air may indeed enhance the lure of the silver screen, a notion that goes against the conventional grain but one that our results support with gusto.

Our findings extend support to previous research, with Smith et al. (2017) and Doe (2015) hinting at the subtle yet noteworthy effects of environmental factors on consumer behavior, which our study amplifies with a dash of hilarity. Additionally, the scatterplot capturing the positive linear relationship between air pollution levels and ticket sales offers a visual testament to the "clear skies, full theaters" phenomenon we've uncovered, weaving a narrative that is both logical and laugh-inducing.

In conclusion, our investigation adds a breath of fresh, albeit somewhat hazy, air to the understanding of the entertainment industry's dynamics and its unexpected entanglement with atmospheric conditions. The avenues for further research are ripe for exploration, as we venture into the foggy conundrum of air pollution's puzzling ties to the silver screen. While we cannot definitively establish causality, the findings certainly invite a fresh perspective on the unseen influences that shape our everyday choices, be it in embracing escapism or seeking solace in the midst of atmospheric adversity. This study encourages researchers to push the boundaries of conventional wisdom and peer through the haze to uncover the unexpected connections that may steer the course of industries and consumer behavior.


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

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia and Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year. 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]]
Clear Skies, Full Theaters: Investigating the Relationship Between Air Quality and Box Office Success in Blacksburg, Virginia

[[ABSTRACT]]
The entertainment industry, much like the stock market, can be influenced by numerous external factors. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to investigate the potential relationship between air pollution levels and box office success in Blacksburg, Virginia. Leveraging data sourced from the Environmental Protection Agency and The Numbers, we examined the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the year's top movie from 1995 to 2003. Surprisingly, the results revealed a statistically significant correlation, with a coefficient of 0.8480983 and p < 0.01, indicating a strong association between higher air pollution levels and increased ticket sales for the top movie of the year. While these findings are certainly intriguing, causation cannot be definitively established, and further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms at play. This research may provide valuable insights for movie producers, entertainment analysts, and environmental policy makers, offering a breath of fresh air in understanding the curious dynamics of the box office.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
As the saying goes, "The show must go on," but could the quality of the air in a town influence the show's success at the box office? In the entertainment industry, where the spotlight is often on star power and gripping storylines, it might come as a surprise that something as seemingly mundane as air pollution could have an impact on ticket sales. However, as researchers, we know that often the most unexpected factors can play a role in shaping consumer behavior.
The hustle and bustle of life in Blacksburg, Virginia, is not immune to the effects of air pollution, with its own blend of urban and rural air quality challenges. While it's common knowledge that air pollution can have detrimental effects on public health and the environment, its potential influence on the success of blockbuster movies might seem like a punchline rather than a serious inquiry. Nonetheless, as dedicated scholars, we must entertain the possibility that not all factors affecting consumer choices are immediately obvious.
This study delves into the intersection of air quality and box office sales, seeking to understand whether there is a meaningful relationship between these seemingly disparate domains. By examining the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the top movie of the year, we embark on a journey to uncover the hidden connections between air pollution and the allure of the silver screen. While the data may suggest a correlation between air pollution levels and box office success, we must tread cautiously, as correlation does not always imply causation. After all, we wouldn't want to jump to conclusions faster than the latest action hero leaps off a building.
In the following sections, we will meticulously explore the methodology, results, and implications of our findings. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of statistical analyses and interpretive discussions, let's take a moment to appreciate the irony of potentially finding that "polluted air" could be a breath of fresh air for movie sales, and that in the world of entertainment, even the atmosphere can play a starring role. So, grab your popcorn and buckle up as we journey through the murky haze of air pollution to uncover the surprising connections it may have with the bright lights of the cinema.

[[RESULTS]]
Our statistical analyses yielded some unexpected, and possibly breath-taking, findings. We found a strong correlation of 0.8480983 between air pollution levels, here represented by the air quality index, and the number of tickets sold for the top movie of the year in Blacksburg, Virginia from 1995 to 2003. The coefficient of determination, or R-squared value, stood at 0.7192708, indicating that approximately 72% of the variability in ticket sales for the top movie could be explained by the variation in air pollution levels.
Now, as much as we'd like to attribute the surge in movie ticket sales to the gripping plotlines and spellbinding performances, our data seem to suggest that the murkier the air, the clearer the preference for box office hits. It appears that the phrase "hazy is as hazy does" might indeed apply here.
Furthermore, our analysis revealed that the observed association between air pollution and increased ticket sales was highly statistically significant, with a p-value of less than 0.01. In simpler terms, the likelihood of such a strong relationship occurring by chance is less than 1 in 100, proving that these results are not just blowing in the wind.
In Figure 1, our scatterplot vividly illustrates the positive linear relationship between air pollution levels and tickets sold for the top movie of the year, providing a snapshot of the "clear skies, full theaters" phenomenon we've unearthed.
Our findings certainly paint an intriguing picture of the interplay between air quality and box office success. However, as any good researcher knows, correlation does not imply causation. Before we start recommending smog machines as the next big thing in movie marketing, further investigation is essential to unravel the underlying mechanisms driving this unexpected correlation. Perhaps it's the hazy setting that makes the silver screen sparkle a bit brighter, or maybe there's a psychological element at play, where moviegoers seek escapism in the midst of atmospheric adversity.
This unexpected finding sheds a different light on the dynamics of the entertainment industry in a manner that, dare we say, transcends the conventional wisdom. Perhaps it's time to see the world of box office influence through a different lens, quite literally, as we navigate the foggy conundrum of air pollution's unexpected ties to the silver screen.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our research has revealed a surprisingly robust association between air pollution levels and ticket sales for the top movie of the year in Blacksburg, Virginia. While these findings may seem as improbable as finding a diamond in the smog, the statistical significance of the correlation cannot be denied. It appears that the allure of the silver screen is not immune to the haze in the air, and the entertainment industry may have an unexpected ally in the form of atmospheric murk. It's a curious case of "the foggier, the merrier" at the box office, challenging conventional wisdom and prompting us to reconsider the influences that drive moviegoers to the theaters. However, as we play the role of the cautious scientist, we must acknowledge that correlation does not equate to causation, and further investigation is needed to unravel the underlying mechanisms at play. Is it the atmosphere that adds an ethereal charm to the cinema experience, or are there deeper psychological forces driving this peculiar relationship? These questions beckon for more exploration, but for now, we can take a moment to appreciate the unexpected humor in discovering that, in the world of entertainment, even the air quality index may have a starring role. In the grand narrative of research, some questions lead to answers that confound expectations, and this peculiar connection between air pollution and box office success in Blacksburg, Virginia, is certainly one for the record books. Nonetheless, as we close this chapter, we assert that, for now, no more research is needed in this area.


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 Clear Skies, Full Theaters: Investigating the Relationship Between Air Quality and Box Office Success in Blacksburg, Virginia. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

Journal of Atmospheric Aesthetics


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 Clear Skies, Full Theaters: Investigating the Relationship Between Air Quality and Box Office Success in Blacksburg, Virginia. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Solar Plexus Research Institute


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 Clear Skies, Full Theaters: Investigating the Relationship Between Air Quality and Box Office Success in Blacksburg, Virginia with an abstract of The entertainment industry, much like the stock market, can be influenced by numerous external factors. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to investigate the potential relationship between air pollution levels and box office success in Blacksburg, Virginia. Leveraging data sourced from the Environmental Protection Agency and The Numbers, we examined the air quality index and the number of tickets sold for the year's top movie from 1995 to 2003. Surprisingly, the results revealed a statistically significant correlation, with a coefficient of 0.8480983 and p < 0.01, indicating a strong association between higher air pollution levels and increased ticket sales for the top movie of the year. While these findings are certainly intriguing, causation cannot be definitively established, and further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms at play. This research may provide valuable insights for movie producers, entertainment analysts, and environmental policy makers, offering a breath of fresh air in understanding the curious dynamics of the box office.

ChatGPT:

Clear skies, air quality, box office success, Blacksburg, Virginia, entertainment industry, stock market, air pollution levels, Environmental Protection Agency, The Numbers, air quality index, ticket sales, movie, correlation, causation, research, movie producers, entertainment analysts, environmental policy makers

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



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Data details

Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia
Detailed data title: Percentage of days 'unhealthy' or worse air quality in Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford, VA
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
See what else correlates with Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia

Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year
Source: The Numbers
See what else correlates with Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year

Correlation r = 0.8480983 (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 = 0.7192708 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 71.9% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia) over the 9 years from 1995 through 2003.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 0.0039. 0.0038642300187934696000000000
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 0.85 in 0.39% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 259 random variables Which I absolutely did.
with the same 8 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 8 because we have two variables measured over a period of 9 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.

[ 0.42, 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.
199519961997199819992000200120022003
Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia (Bad air quality days)0.0041152300.005524860.03448280.0303030.00579710.002824860.01104970.00280112
Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year (Tickets sold)422984006925880054489600945243008473290047006900515194006948470056337400




Why this works

  1. Data dredging: I have 25,153 variables in my database. I compare all these variables against each other to find ones that randomly match up. That's 632,673,409 correlation calculations! This is called “data dredging.” Instead of starting with a hypothesis and testing it, I instead abused the data to see what correlations shake out. It’s a dangerous way to go about analysis, because any sufficiently large dataset will yield strong correlations completely at random.
  2. Lack of causal connection: There is probably Because these pages are automatically generated, it's possible that the two variables you are viewing are in fact causually related. I take steps to prevent the obvious ones from showing on the site (I don't let data about the weather in one city correlate with the weather in a neighboring city, for example), but sometimes they still pop up. If they are related, cool! You found a loophole.
    no direct connection between these variables, despite what the AI says above. This is exacerbated by the fact that I used "Years" as the base variable. Lots of things happen in a year that are not related to each other! Most studies would use something like "one person" in stead of "one year" to be the "thing" studied.
  3. Observations not independent: For many variables, sequential years are not independent of each other. If a population of people is continuously doing something every day, there is no reason to think they would suddenly change how they are doing that thing on January 1. A simple Personally I don't find any p-value calculation to be 'simple,' but you know what I mean.
    p-value calculation does not take this into account, so mathematically it appears less probable than it really is.
  4. Very low n: There are not many data points included in this analysis. Even if the p-value is high, we should be suspicious of using so few datapoints in a correlation.
  5. Y-axis doesn't start at zero: I truncated the Y-axes of the graph above. I also used a line graph, which makes the visual connection stand out more than it deserves. Nothing against line graphs. They are great at telling a story when you have linear data! But visually it is deceptive because the only data is at the points on the graph, not the lines on the graph. In between each point, the data could have been doing anything. Like going for a random walk by itself!
    Mathematically what I showed is true, but it is intentionally misleading. Below is the same chart but with both Y-axes starting at zero.




Try it yourself

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([0.00411523,0,0.00552486,0.0344828,0.030303,0.0057971,0.00282486,0.0110497,0.00280112,])
array_2 = np.array([42298400,69258800,54489600,94524300,84732900,47006900,51519400,69484700,56337400,])
array_1_name = "Air pollution in Blacksburg, Virginia"
array_2_name = "Tickets Sold for the Top Movie of the Year"

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

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

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Correlation ID: 4605 · Black Variable ID: 22159 · Red Variable ID: 543
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