about · email me · subscribe
Spurious correlation #4,963 · 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 'dumb ways to die' meme and the second variable is Google searches for 'google'.  The chart goes from 2006 to 2023, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

As the 'dumb ways to die' meme gained traction, more and more people sought it out on the internet. The constant mention of 'dumb ways to die' subconsciously reminded people of their mortality, prompting them to contemplate life's fleeting nature. This existential crisis led to a surge in Google searches as individuals frantically sought answers to life's big questions, inadvertently driving up the overall interest in googling, and ultimately, causing a spike in Google searches for 'google'. It's a classic case of internet shenanigans indirectly prompting a profound quest for meaning and knowledge!

Create a meme inspired by the dumb ways to die meme that in some way references Google searches for 'google'. Try to emulate the style of the meme - don’t violate the copyright, just make it look and feel like the original meme.

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 an increase in Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme caused google (Google searches for 'google') to increase.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
The 'Dumb Ways to Die' Meme: A Killer Connection to Google Searches for 'Google'

The Journal of Internet Culture and Memetics

Jan 2024

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




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

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'google'. 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 Google Trends and Google Trends to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 and p < 0.01 for 2006 to 2023.

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

[[TITLE]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit

[[ABSTRACT]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit



ChatGPT:
[[TITLE]]
The 'Dumb Ways to Die' Meme: A Killer Connection to Google Searches for 'Google'

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study explores the potential link between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' using data from Google Trends and Google Trends over the period of 2006 to 2023. Our findings reveal a robust correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 and a statistically significant p-value below 0.01, implying a strong association between the two phenomena. The results suggest that, much like the curious case of the chicken and the egg, the 'dumb ways to die' meme may be driving an increase in Google searches for 'Google,' or vice versa. This paper provides insight into the fascinating yet unforeseen ways in which internet memes may shape online behavior, leaving us to ponder: are we truly in control of our digital destinies, or are we merely puppets in the whimsical dance of memes and search engines?


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

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'google'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The 'Dumb Ways to Die' Meme: A Killer Connection to Google Searches for 'Google'

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study explores the potential link between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' using data from Google Trends and Google Trends over the period of 2006 to 2023. Our findings reveal a robust correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 and a statistically significant p-value below 0.01, implying a strong association between the two phenomena. The results suggest that, much like the curious case of the chicken and the egg, the 'dumb ways to die' meme may be driving an increase in Google searches for 'Google,' or vice versa. This paper provides insight into the fascinating yet unforeseen ways in which internet memes may shape online behavior, leaving us to ponder: are we truly in control of our digital destinies, or are we merely puppets in the whimsical dance of memes and search engines?

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The advent of internet memes has introduced a new dimension to online culture, with these virally transmitted ideas, behaviors, and styles manifesting in various forms across the digital landscape. One such meme that has captured the collective imagination of the online populace is the 'dumb ways to die' meme, a cheeky and somewhat morbid animation that humorously depicts various ill-fated ways to meet one's demise. Concurrently, the ubiquitous presence of Google as the premier search engine has made it an integral part of the internet experience, with users often turning to it as their virtual compass in the vast sea of online information.

In this study, we endeavor to examine the curious relationship between the upsurge in the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and the frequency of Google searches for the term 'Google'. As researchers, we were drawn to this investigation not only due to the inherent quirkiness of the topic, but also by the intriguing possibility of unraveling a hitherto unexplored nexus between internet memes and search engine behavior.

The endeavor to dissect the dynamics of this correlation has led us to sift through copious amounts of data from Google Trends, examining trends and patterns between 2006 and 2023. Through stringent statistical analysis and methodical exploration, we aim to shed light on this enigmatic linkage between a lighthearted meme and the act of searching for the very platform that has become integral to the modern online experience.

In the next sections of this paper, we will delve into the methods employed, the empirical findings, and the implications of our research, while also peppering in some unintentionally amusing statistical jargon and befuddling observations that are sure to bring a smile to the most stoic of readers. After all, what could be more fitting for a paper discussing the intersection of internet memes and search engine activity than a few tongue-in-cheek moments of levity?


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

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'google'. 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 cite some social media posts you read that seem to be related.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The 'Dumb Ways to Die' Meme: A Killer Connection to Google Searches for 'Google'

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study explores the potential link between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' using data from Google Trends and Google Trends over the period of 2006 to 2023. Our findings reveal a robust correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 and a statistically significant p-value below 0.01, implying a strong association between the two phenomena. The results suggest that, much like the curious case of the chicken and the egg, the 'dumb ways to die' meme may be driving an increase in Google searches for 'Google,' or vice versa. This paper provides insight into the fascinating yet unforeseen ways in which internet memes may shape online behavior, leaving us to ponder: are we truly in control of our digital destinies, or are we merely puppets in the whimsical dance of memes and search engines?

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The advent of internet memes has introduced a new dimension to online culture, with these virally transmitted ideas, behaviors, and styles manifesting in various forms across the digital landscape. One such meme that has captured the collective imagination of the online populace is the 'dumb ways to die' meme, a cheeky and somewhat morbid animation that humorously depicts various ill-fated ways to meet one's demise. Concurrently, the ubiquitous presence of Google as the premier search engine has made it an integral part of the internet experience, with users often turning to it as their virtual compass in the vast sea of online information.
In this study, we endeavor to examine the curious relationship between the upsurge in the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and the frequency of Google searches for the term 'Google'. As researchers, we were drawn to this investigation not only due to the inherent quirkiness of the topic, but also by the intriguing possibility of unraveling a hitherto unexplored nexus between internet memes and search engine behavior.
The endeavor to dissect the dynamics of this correlation has led us to sift through copious amounts of data from Google Trends, examining trends and patterns between 2006 and 2023. Through stringent statistical analysis and methodical exploration, we aim to shed light on this enigmatic linkage between a lighthearted meme and the act of searching for the very platform that has become integral to the modern online experience.
In the next sections of this paper, we will delve into the methods employed, the empirical findings, and the implications of our research, while also peppering in some unintentionally amusing statistical jargon and befuddling observations that are sure to bring a smile to the most stoic of readers. After all, what could be more fitting for a paper discussing the intersection of internet memes and search engine activity than a few tongue-in-cheek moments of levity?

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[Literature Review]]

The interplay between internet memes and online behavior has been a subject of growing interest in the realm of digital culture research. Smith et al. (2017) highlighted the emergence of internet memes as powerful vehicles for conveying social and cultural commentary. Similarly, Doe and Jones (2019) examined the influence of internet memes on shaping collective attitudes and behaviors in online communities. The prevalence of internet memes in shaping online interactions has been underscored by their capacity to engage and captivate diverse audiences, thereby becoming organic agents of virtual phenomena.

Turning to the realm of search engine behavior, Brown and White (2016) delved into the patterns and motivations underlying users' search inquiries. They underscored the multifaceted nature of online search activities, suggesting that user behavior is influenced by a myriad of external factors, including but not limited to popular culture and digital trends. In a parallel vein, Black and Green (2018) elucidated the multidimensional facets of search engine usage, shedding light on the intricate interplay between user preferences, algorithmic relevance, and societal zeitgeist in shaping search patterns.

Building upon this scholarly foundation, our investigation delves into the uncharted territory of the potential linkage between the prevalence of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google.' As we embark on this unconventional expedition into the unexplored convergence of internet memes and search engine activity, we aim to infuse a dash of levity and amusement into the often sober discourse of academic inquiry.

In their non-fiction works, "The Power of Memes" by Grey and "Digital Footprints in the Age of Googling" by Brown offered intriguing perspectives on the influence of internet memes and online search behavior. The fictitious works of "The Search for Meme-ory" by Whimsy and "Googling for Dummies" by Wit provided whimsical yet pertinent insights into the intersection of internet culture and search engine phenomena.

Moreover, anecdotal evidence gleaned from social media platforms has yielded intriguing musings pertaining to the connection between the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google.' One Twitter user, @MemeMaster42, humorously quipped, "Watching dumb ways to die makes me feel like Googling 'Google' just to make sure I'm still alive." This tongue-in-cheek observation reflects the quaint yet thought-provoking nature of the interplay between online memes and search engine dynamics, underscoring the potential for unforeseen connections amidst the digital milieu.

As we navigate through this compendium of scholarly and quasi-scholarly sources, we invite our esteemed readers to join us in unraveling the uncanny threads that weave the fabric of internet culture and online exploration, and perhaps share a chuckle or two along the way.


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

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'google'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Google Trends and Google Trends . You used data from 2006 to 2023

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

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The 'Dumb Ways to Die' Meme: A Killer Connection to Google Searches for 'Google'

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study explores the potential link between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' using data from Google Trends and Google Trends over the period of 2006 to 2023. Our findings reveal a robust correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 and a statistically significant p-value below 0.01, implying a strong association between the two phenomena. The results suggest that, much like the curious case of the chicken and the egg, the 'dumb ways to die' meme may be driving an increase in Google searches for 'Google,' or vice versa. This paper provides insight into the fascinating yet unforeseen ways in which internet memes may shape online behavior, leaving us to ponder: are we truly in control of our digital destinies, or are we merely puppets in the whimsical dance of memes and search engines?

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The advent of internet memes has introduced a new dimension to online culture, with these virally transmitted ideas, behaviors, and styles manifesting in various forms across the digital landscape. One such meme that has captured the collective imagination of the online populace is the 'dumb ways to die' meme, a cheeky and somewhat morbid animation that humorously depicts various ill-fated ways to meet one's demise. Concurrently, the ubiquitous presence of Google as the premier search engine has made it an integral part of the internet experience, with users often turning to it as their virtual compass in the vast sea of online information.
In this study, we endeavor to examine the curious relationship between the upsurge in the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and the frequency of Google searches for the term 'Google'. As researchers, we were drawn to this investigation not only due to the inherent quirkiness of the topic, but also by the intriguing possibility of unraveling a hitherto unexplored nexus between internet memes and search engine behavior.
The endeavor to dissect the dynamics of this correlation has led us to sift through copious amounts of data from Google Trends, examining trends and patterns between 2006 and 2023. Through stringent statistical analysis and methodical exploration, we aim to shed light on this enigmatic linkage between a lighthearted meme and the act of searching for the very platform that has become integral to the modern online experience.
In the next sections of this paper, we will delve into the methods employed, the empirical findings, and the implications of our research, while also peppering in some unintentionally amusing statistical jargon and befuddling observations that are sure to bring a smile to the most stoic of readers. After all, what could be more fitting for a paper discussing the intersection of internet memes and search engine activity than a few tongue-in-cheek moments of levity?

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

The methodological approach employed in this study was as multifaceted and intricate as unraveling the mysterious allure of an internet meme itself. Our research team harnessed the wondrous power of publicly available data from Google Trends, leveraging its capacity to capture the zeitgeist of online search behavior. We focused on the time frame spanning 2006 to 2023, capturing the ebb and flow of internet memes and search engine activity over the years.

To commence our exploratory journey, we meticulously tracked the search interest for the term 'dumb ways to die' on Google Trends. This involved deftly navigating through the landscape of search volume indices, regional interest heatmaps, and related queries to glean comprehensive insights into the dissemination and reception of this whimsical, albeit macabre, meme.

Concurrently, we harnessed the omnipotent force of Google Trends to monitor the frequency of searches for the term 'Google'. This entailed adeptly parsing through the labyrinth of search volume dynamics, interest by subregion graphs, and top and rising related topics, all in pursuit of understanding the patterns and peaks in the collective inclination to seek Google's omnipresent guidance.

The methodological path we treaded then led us to employ a phenomenally sophisticated statistical technique - the computation of the Pearson correlation coefficient. This formidable tool allowed us to discern the degree and direction of the relationship between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and the frequency of Google searches for 'Google'.

Furthermore, we subjected the extracted data to the rigors of inferential statistical analysis, venturing into the realm of hypothesis testing to ascertain the statistical significance of the observed association. This rigorous process illuminated the presence of a markedly robust correlation and a resoundingly minuscule p-value, hinting at a compelling link that surpasses mere happenstance.

Alas, as with all grand expeditions of inquiry, we encountered the thorny thickets of data cleansing and verification. Our arduous odyssey included the meticulous cleansing of the data to expunge any potential aberrations or outliers that could obfuscate the true essence of the underlying trends.

Intriguingly, our methodological voyage also involved the subtle art of reading between the statistical lines, inferring patterns, and interconnections that might not be readily apparent at first glance. This allowed us to unearth the subtle nuances and idiosyncrasies in the data that could potentially elucidate the nature of the symbiotic relationship between the popularity of the meme and the search proclivities of the denizens of the digital realm.

Taking into account the multifaceted nature of our methodology, the results yielded from this complex yet exhilarating expedition are poised to shed light on the curious interplay between a whimsical internet meme and the insatiable human urge to 'Google', leaving no stone unturned in our pursuit of scholarly insight and perhaps a giggle or two along the way.


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

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'google'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

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

For the time period 2006 to 2023, you found a correlation 0.8548287, r-squared of 0.7307321, and p < 0.01.

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

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The 'Dumb Ways to Die' Meme: A Killer Connection to Google Searches for 'Google'

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study explores the potential link between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' using data from Google Trends and Google Trends over the period of 2006 to 2023. Our findings reveal a robust correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 and a statistically significant p-value below 0.01, implying a strong association between the two phenomena. The results suggest that, much like the curious case of the chicken and the egg, the 'dumb ways to die' meme may be driving an increase in Google searches for 'Google,' or vice versa. This paper provides insight into the fascinating yet unforeseen ways in which internet memes may shape online behavior, leaving us to ponder: are we truly in control of our digital destinies, or are we merely puppets in the whimsical dance of memes and search engines?

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The advent of internet memes has introduced a new dimension to online culture, with these virally transmitted ideas, behaviors, and styles manifesting in various forms across the digital landscape. One such meme that has captured the collective imagination of the online populace is the 'dumb ways to die' meme, a cheeky and somewhat morbid animation that humorously depicts various ill-fated ways to meet one's demise. Concurrently, the ubiquitous presence of Google as the premier search engine has made it an integral part of the internet experience, with users often turning to it as their virtual compass in the vast sea of online information.
In this study, we endeavor to examine the curious relationship between the upsurge in the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and the frequency of Google searches for the term 'Google'. As researchers, we were drawn to this investigation not only due to the inherent quirkiness of the topic, but also by the intriguing possibility of unraveling a hitherto unexplored nexus between internet memes and search engine behavior.
The endeavor to dissect the dynamics of this correlation has led us to sift through copious amounts of data from Google Trends, examining trends and patterns between 2006 and 2023. Through stringent statistical analysis and methodical exploration, we aim to shed light on this enigmatic linkage between a lighthearted meme and the act of searching for the very platform that has become integral to the modern online experience.
In the next sections of this paper, we will delve into the methods employed, the empirical findings, and the implications of our research, while also peppering in some unintentionally amusing statistical jargon and befuddling observations that are sure to bring a smile to the most stoic of readers. After all, what could be more fitting for a paper discussing the intersection of internet memes and search engine activity than a few tongue-in-cheek moments of levity?

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

Upon conducting our rigorous analysis, we found a remarkably strong and positive correlation between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' during the time period from 2006 to 2023. The correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 indicates a robust relationship, while the r-squared value of 0.7307321 suggests that approximately 73.07% of the variability in Google searches for 'Google' can be explained by the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme. Furthermore, the p-value of less than 0.01 implies a statistically significant association between these two variables, lending credence to the observed correlation.

Figure 1 illustrates the clear and compelling relationship between the two phenomena, depicting a scatterplot that would surely make any statistician's heart flutter with excitement. The data points are unambiguous in their alignment, mirroring the way in which memes and search engine queries seem to harmonize in the digital sphere. Even the most ardent skeptic would find it difficult to dismiss the striking coherence captured in this visual representation.

The findings of our study open the door to a plethora of whimsical musings and puzzling contemplations. It appears that the endearing allure of the 'dumb ways to die' meme may not only have amused and bemused internet denizens but also prompted them to turn to the familiar embrace of Google, perpetuating a cycle of curiosity and amusement. Is this an instance of the meme dictating our online behavior, or are we subconsciously seeking solace in the seemingly infinite abyss of the internet, using 'Google' as our trusty guide through the bewitching dance of memes and search engine algorithms? These are questions that tantalize the mind and evoke a sense of wonder at the capricious interplay of digital culture and human behavior.

In summary, our research provides empirical evidence of a compelling linkage between the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google', shedding light on the hitherto unexplored interplay between internet memes and search engine activity. The implications of these findings extend beyond the world of academia, inviting us to contemplate the curious ways in which memes and online platforms shape our digital destinies.


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

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'google'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

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

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

[[TITLE]]
The 'Dumb Ways to Die' Meme: A Killer Connection to Google Searches for 'Google'

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study explores the potential link between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' using data from Google Trends and Google Trends over the period of 2006 to 2023. Our findings reveal a robust correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 and a statistically significant p-value below 0.01, implying a strong association between the two phenomena. The results suggest that, much like the curious case of the chicken and the egg, the 'dumb ways to die' meme may be driving an increase in Google searches for 'Google,' or vice versa. This paper provides insight into the fascinating yet unforeseen ways in which internet memes may shape online behavior, leaving us to ponder: are we truly in control of our digital destinies, or are we merely puppets in the whimsical dance of memes and search engines?

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The interplay between internet memes and online behavior has been a subject of growing interest in the realm of digital culture research. Smith et al. (2017) highlighted the emergence of internet memes as powerful vehicles for conveying social and cultural commentary. Similarly, Doe and Jones (2019) examined the influence of internet memes on shaping collective attitudes and behaviors in online communities. The prevalence of internet memes in shaping online interactions has been underscored by their capacity to engage and captivate diverse audiences, thereby becoming organic agents of virtual phenomena.
Turning to the realm of search engine behavior, Brown and White (2016) delved into the patterns and motivations underlying users' search inquiries. They underscored the multifaceted nature of online search activities, suggesting that user behavior is influenced by a myriad of external factors, including but not limited to popular culture and digital trends. In a parallel vein, Black and Green (2018) elucidated the multidimensional facets of search engine usage, shedding light on the intricate interplay between user preferences, algorithmic relevance, and societal zeitgeist in shaping search patterns.
Building upon this scholarly foundation, our investigation delves into the uncharted territory of the potential linkage between the prevalence of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google.' As we embark on this unconventional expedition into the unexplored convergence of internet memes and search engine activity, we aim to infuse a dash of levity and amusement into the often sober discourse of academic inquiry.
In their non-fiction works, "The Power of Memes" by Grey and "Digital Footprints in the Age of Googling" by Brown offered intriguing perspectives on the influence of internet memes and online search behavior. The fictitious works of "The Search for Meme-ory" by Whimsy and "Googling for Dummies" by Wit provided whimsical yet pertinent insights into the intersection of internet culture and search engine phenomena.
Moreover, anecdotal evidence gleaned from social media platforms has yielded intriguing musings pertaining to the connection between the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google.' One Twitter user, @MemeMaster42, humorously quipped, "Watching dumb ways to die makes me feel like Googling 'Google' just to make sure I'm still alive." This tongue-in-cheek observation reflects the quaint yet thought-provoking nature of the interplay between online memes and search engine dynamics, underscoring the potential for unforeseen connections amidst the digital milieu.
As we navigate through this compendium of scholarly and quasi-scholarly sources, we invite our esteemed readers to join us in unraveling the uncanny threads that weave the fabric of internet culture and online exploration, and perhaps share a chuckle or two along the way.

[[RESULTS]]
Upon conducting our rigorous analysis, we found a remarkably strong and positive correlation between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' during the time period from 2006 to 2023. The correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 indicates a robust relationship, while the r-squared value of 0.7307321 suggests that approximately 73.07% of the variability in Google searches for 'Google' can be explained by the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme. Furthermore, the p-value of less than 0.01 implies a statistically significant association between these two variables, lending credence to the observed correlation.
Figure 1 illustrates the clear and compelling relationship between the two phenomena, depicting a scatterplot that would surely make any statistician's heart flutter with excitement. The data points are unambiguous in their alignment, mirroring the way in which memes and search engine queries seem to harmonize in the digital sphere. Even the most ardent skeptic would find it difficult to dismiss the striking coherence captured in this visual representation.
The findings of our study open the door to a plethora of whimsical musings and puzzling contemplations. It appears that the endearing allure of the 'dumb ways to die' meme may not only have amused and bemused internet denizens but also prompted them to turn to the familiar embrace of Google, perpetuating a cycle of curiosity and amusement. Is this an instance of the meme dictating our online behavior, or are we subconsciously seeking solace in the seemingly infinite abyss of the internet, using 'Google' as our trusty guide through the bewitching dance of memes and search engine algorithms? These are questions that tantalize the mind and evoke a sense of wonder at the capricious interplay of digital culture and human behavior.
In summary, our research provides empirical evidence of a compelling linkage between the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google', shedding light on the hitherto unexplored interplay between internet memes and search engine activity. The implications of these findings extend beyond the world of academia, inviting us to contemplate the curious ways in which memes and online platforms shape our digital destinies.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our investigation into the potential linkage between the prevalence of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' has yielded noteworthy findings. The substantial correlation coefficient and statistically significant p-value align with prior research, all but confirming the influence of internet memes on search engine behavior. It seems that the cultural impact of the 'dumb ways to die' meme extends beyond mere amusement, hinting at a profound and possibly subconscious influence on digital exploration.

Building upon the literature review, which whimsically delved into the influence of internet memes and online search behavior, our results provide tangible evidence to support the notion that online memes can indeed shape search engine activity. Notably, the offhand remark by @MemeMaster42 jokingly highlighting the impulse to Google 'Google' while perusing 'dumb ways to die' content now presents itself as an unwitting predictor of our empirical findings. It appears that the amalgamation of levity and scholarly inquiry has yielded a serendipitous alignment between jest and empirical evidence, showcasing the harmonious coalescence of rigorous research and internet whimsy.

The robust relationship captured in our analysis raises a discussion of causality: does the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme drive an increase in Google searches for 'Google,' or are individuals inherently drawn to the comforting embrace of the search engine when exposed to the allure of internet memes? While our study does not purport to resolve this tantalizing conundrum, it does prompt us to consider the intricate interplay between digital culture and human behavior, nudging us to reflect on the capricious and at times confounding dynamics of the online realm.

Moreover, the frivolous yet pertinent insights from the fictitious works of "The Search for Meme-ory" by Whimsy and "Googling for Dummies" by Wit now appear prescient in their speculative contemplations. The droll interplay between our empirical findings and the quirkier facets of academic discourse underscores the unexpected charm of scientific inquiry, lending a touch of whimsy to the often somber landscape of scholarly investigation.

In conclusion, our scholarly escapade into the nexus of internet memes and search engine behavior has unveiled a convivial fusion of data-driven inquiry and frolicsome nuance, underscoring the potential for serendipitous discoveries amidst the tapestry of academic research. Our findings not only contribute to the burgeoning body of literature on digital culture but also beckon us to appreciate the duplicitous allure of serious research intertwined with the playfulness of internet whimsy.


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

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'google'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

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

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
The 'Dumb Ways to Die' Meme: A Killer Connection to Google Searches for 'Google'

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study explores the potential link between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' using data from Google Trends and Google Trends over the period of 2006 to 2023. Our findings reveal a robust correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 and a statistically significant p-value below 0.01, implying a strong association between the two phenomena. The results suggest that, much like the curious case of the chicken and the egg, the 'dumb ways to die' meme may be driving an increase in Google searches for 'Google,' or vice versa. This paper provides insight into the fascinating yet unforeseen ways in which internet memes may shape online behavior, leaving us to ponder: are we truly in control of our digital destinies, or are we merely puppets in the whimsical dance of memes and search engines?

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The advent of internet memes has introduced a new dimension to online culture, with these virally transmitted ideas, behaviors, and styles manifesting in various forms across the digital landscape. One such meme that has captured the collective imagination of the online populace is the 'dumb ways to die' meme, a cheeky and somewhat morbid animation that humorously depicts various ill-fated ways to meet one's demise. Concurrently, the ubiquitous presence of Google as the premier search engine has made it an integral part of the internet experience, with users often turning to it as their virtual compass in the vast sea of online information.
In this study, we endeavor to examine the curious relationship between the upsurge in the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and the frequency of Google searches for the term 'Google'. As researchers, we were drawn to this investigation not only due to the inherent quirkiness of the topic, but also by the intriguing possibility of unraveling a hitherto unexplored nexus between internet memes and search engine behavior.
The endeavor to dissect the dynamics of this correlation has led us to sift through copious amounts of data from Google Trends, examining trends and patterns between 2006 and 2023. Through stringent statistical analysis and methodical exploration, we aim to shed light on this enigmatic linkage between a lighthearted meme and the act of searching for the very platform that has become integral to the modern online experience.
In the next sections of this paper, we will delve into the methods employed, the empirical findings, and the implications of our research, while also peppering in some unintentionally amusing statistical jargon and befuddling observations that are sure to bring a smile to the most stoic of readers. After all, what could be more fitting for a paper discussing the intersection of internet memes and search engine activity than a few tongue-in-cheek moments of levity?

[[RESULTS]]
Upon conducting our rigorous analysis, we found a remarkably strong and positive correlation between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' during the time period from 2006 to 2023. The correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 indicates a robust relationship, while the r-squared value of 0.7307321 suggests that approximately 73.07% of the variability in Google searches for 'Google' can be explained by the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme. Furthermore, the p-value of less than 0.01 implies a statistically significant association between these two variables, lending credence to the observed correlation.
Figure 1 illustrates the clear and compelling relationship between the two phenomena, depicting a scatterplot that would surely make any statistician's heart flutter with excitement. The data points are unambiguous in their alignment, mirroring the way in which memes and search engine queries seem to harmonize in the digital sphere. Even the most ardent skeptic would find it difficult to dismiss the striking coherence captured in this visual representation.
The findings of our study open the door to a plethora of whimsical musings and puzzling contemplations. It appears that the endearing allure of the 'dumb ways to die' meme may not only have amused and bemused internet denizens but also prompted them to turn to the familiar embrace of Google, perpetuating a cycle of curiosity and amusement. Is this an instance of the meme dictating our online behavior, or are we subconsciously seeking solace in the seemingly infinite abyss of the internet, using 'Google' as our trusty guide through the bewitching dance of memes and search engine algorithms? These are questions that tantalize the mind and evoke a sense of wonder at the capricious interplay of digital culture and human behavior.
In summary, our research provides empirical evidence of a compelling linkage between the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google', shedding light on the hitherto unexplored interplay between internet memes and search engine activity. The implications of these findings extend beyond the world of academia, inviting us to contemplate the curious ways in which memes and online platforms shape our digital destinies.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our study has revealed a notable correlation between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google'. The statistical analysis has uncovered a robust relationship, indicating that the rise of this viral meme may indeed be influencing the frequency of searches for the ubiquitous search engine. One can't help but marvel at the inexplicable link between the seemingly frivolous world of internet memes and the practical realm of online information retrieval.

The implications of these findings are as intriguing as they are unexpected, prompting us to consider the whimsical dance of memes and search engine queries in a new light. It seems that in the ever-evolving landscape of the digital realm, even the most lighthearted of content can exert a palpable influence on user behavior, prompting them to embark on searches for the very platform that has become an indelible fixture of their online experience.

As we reflect on these findings, one cannot help but be reminded of the immortal words of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle: "It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data. Insensibly one begins to twist facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts." Yet in our case, the facts themselves present a tantalizing mystery, beckoning us to embark on a whimsical journey through the realms of internet culture and digital anthropology.

While this study has offered a captivating glimpse into the entwined destinies of internet memes and search engine activity, it also serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the fickle and ever-surprising nature of digital phenomena. It compels us to ponder the profound and perplexing ways in which memes and search engines may conspire to shape our online explorations, leaving us with an enduring curiosity about the intricate workings of the digital sphere.

In light of these revelations, one might be tempted to delve further into the eccentricities of internet culture and online behavior, exploring the enigmatic interconnections that permeate our digital world. However, in the spirit of preserving the quirkiness and allure of our findings, we assert that additional research in this peculiar domain is wholly unnecessary. For in the splendid chaos of internet memes and search engine dynamics, some mysteries are best left unsolved, allowing us to revel in the whimsical wonder of the digital tapestry.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of academic journals. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding research, scientific, or academic journal that would publish a paper entited The 'Dumb Ways to Die' Meme: A Killer Connection to Google Searches for 'Google'. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Internet Culture and Memetics


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of nonprofit research organizations and associations. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding nonprofit, academic, or scientific association or organization that would sponsor research that resulted in a paper entited The 'Dumb Ways to Die' Meme: A Killer Connection to Google Searches for 'Google'. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for Quirky Research Advancements (SQRA)


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled The 'Dumb Ways to Die' Meme: A Killer Connection to Google Searches for 'Google' with an abstract of This study explores the potential link between the popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme and Google searches for 'Google' using data from Google Trends and Google Trends over the period of 2006 to 2023. Our findings reveal a robust correlation coefficient of 0.8548287 and a statistically significant p-value below 0.01, implying a strong association between the two phenomena. The results suggest that, much like the curious case of the chicken and the egg, the 'dumb ways to die' meme may be driving an increase in Google searches for 'Google,' or vice versa. This paper provides insight into the fascinating yet unforeseen ways in which internet memes may shape online behavior, leaving us to ponder: are we truly in control of our digital destinies, or are we merely puppets in the whimsical dance of memes and search engines?

ChatGPT:

'dumb ways to die' meme, Google searches, Google Trends, internet memes, digital behavior, online behavior, correlation coefficient, statistical significance, meme influence, internet culture, search engine behavior

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



Random correlation

Discover a new correlation

View all correlations

View all research papers

Report an error


Data details

Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme
Detailed data title: Relative volume of Google searches for 'dumb ways to die' (without quotes, in the United States)
Source: Google Trends
Additional Info: Relative search volume is a unique Google thing; the shape of the chart is accurate but the actual numbers are meaningless.

See what else correlates with Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme

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

See what else correlates with Google searches for 'google'

Correlation r = 0.8548287 (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 = 0.7307321 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 73.1% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Google searches for 'google') is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme) over the 18 years from 2006 through 2023.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 6.2E-6. 0.0000062255409660334510000000
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 0.00062% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 160,629 random variables You don't actually need 160 thousand variables to find a correlation like this one. I don't have that many variables in my database. You can also correlate variables that are not independent. I do this a lot.

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

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

Just to be clear: I'm being completely transparent about the calculations. There is no math trickery. This is just how statistics shakes out when you calculate hundreds of millions of random correlations.
with the same 17 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 17 because we have two variables measured over a period of 18 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.

[ 0.65, 0.94 ] 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.
200620072008200920102011201220132014201520162017201820192020202120222023
Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme (Relative popularity)0.200.1111110009.8888939.534.833322.514.41679.083335.755.916675.583334.416675.4166715
Google searches for 'google' (Rel. search volume)2327.916730.666738.083344.333354.83336286.083391.583389.16677264.083357.7554.916757.083348.416751.666748.8889




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([0.2,0,0.111111,0,0,0,9.88889,39.5,34.8333,22.5,14.4167,9.08333,5.75,5.91667,5.58333,4.41667,5.41667,15,])
array_2 = np.array([23,27.9167,30.6667,38.0833,44.3333,54.8333,62,86.0833,91.5833,89.1667,72,64.0833,57.75,54.9167,57.0833,48.4167,51.6667,48.8889,])
array_1_name = "Popularity of the 'dumb ways to die' meme"
array_2_name = "Google searches for 'google'"

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

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



Reuseable content

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

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

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

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

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

Download images for these variables:


View another random correlation

How fun was this correlation?

Big thanks for reviewing!


Correlation ID: 4963 · Black Variable ID: 25107 · Red Variable ID: 1479
about · subscribe · emailme@tylervigen.com · twitter

CC BY 4.0