Spurious correlation #5,344 · 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 'bazinga' meme and the second variable is Google searches for 'zombies'. The chart goes from 2006 to 2023, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme and the second variable is Google searches for 'zombies'. The chart goes from 2006 to 2023, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

Download png, svg

AI explanation

As the 'bazinga' meme gained popularity, more and more people were laughing their brains out. This inadvertently acted as a beacon for zombies, attracting them with the promise of a real 'knee-slapper' (or rather, a 'knee-biter'). It seems the undead have a killer sense of humor after all!

^{Show image generation prompt} Create a meme inspired by the bazinga meme that in some way references Google searches for 'zombies'. Try to emulate the style of the meme - don’t violate the copyright, just make it look and feel like the original meme.
^{Show prompt for explanation} Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how increases in Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme positively influenced zombies (Google searches for 'zombies'). Include one good pun.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)

Zombie Apocalypse: Exploring the Correlation Between 'Bazinga' Popularity and Google Searches for Zombies

The Journal of Pop Culture and Statistical Analysis

Jan 2024

Reminder: This paper is AI-generated. Not real!

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

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

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme and Google searches for 'zombies'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

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

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Then name some cartoons and childrens' shows that you watched that are related to the topic.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Zombie Apocalypse: Exploring the Correlation Between 'Bazinga' Popularity and Google Searches for Zombies"

[[ABSTRACT]]
As the meme culture continues to evolve and permeate into the fabric of society, there is an increasing fascination with understanding the underlying factors driving the popularity of internet memes. In this study, we delve into the uncharted territory of the correlation between the widespread adoption of the "bazinga" meme and the frequency of Google searches for 'zombies.' Utilizing data from Google Trends and a healthy dose of curiosity, our research team embarked on a statistical analysis spanning from 2006 to 2023. The results revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8497924 with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a robust relationship between the two seemingly unrelated concepts. Our findings prompt further investigation into the intricacies of internet culture and its peculiar influences on search behavior. This exploration not only sheds light on the curious connection between humor and apocalyptic fantasies but also underscores the whimsical nature of internet phenomena - as we navigate the digital landscape, it appears that the "bazinga" may hold the key to the impending zombie invasion.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The realm of internet memes has become a fascinating area of study, where the convergence of humor, communication, and cultural phenomena manifests in unpredictable ways. The "bazinga" meme, popularized by the TV show *The Big Bang Theory*, has emerged as a prominent cultural reference, often used to punctuate witty remarks or humorous situations. In parallel, society's enduring fascination with zombies has persisted, with the undead creeping into literature, film, and folklore for centuries. These seemingly disparate cultural artifacts have captured the public imagination and inspired a blend of fascination and amusement.
As digital anthropologists, our research team was propelled by the enigmatic allure of the "bazinga" meme and the enduring fascination with zombies. We embarked on a quest to explore the uncharted territory of their peculiar relationship. Our mission was to disentangle the seemingly incongruous connection between the popular catchphrase "bazinga" and society's morbid curiosity about the walking dead. By leveraging data from Google Trends and harnessing the power of statistical analysis, we embarked on a journey to uncover the interplay between humor and apocalyptic fantasies in the digital landscape.
The objective of this paper is to present our findings on the correlation between the popularity of the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies. Through rigorous quantitative analysis and a sprinkle of academic curiosity, we aim to shed light on the peculiarities of internet culture and unravel the whimsical nexus between two seemingly unrelated phenomena. By delving into this unorthodox exploration, we endeavor to ignite discussions about the unconventional influences that shape online behavior and societal dynamics.
As we unearth the unexpected correlations and implications of our findings, it becomes evident that the "bazinga" meme may hold unsuspected relevance in decoding the enigma of the impending zombie invasion. This research not only contributes to the burgeoning field of digital sociology but also showcases the playful and capricious nature of internet phenomena. Our endeavor to unravel these trends bespeaks the quirkiness of human behavior in the digital age, as we confront the unlikely intersection of humor and impending catastrophe.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The investigation of internet memes and their influence on societal behaviors has received increased attention in recent years. Smith et al. (2017) examined the impact of viral memes on consumer behavior, highlighting the surprising ways in which internet humor can shape online activity. In a similar vein, Doe and Jones (2019) explored the psychological underpinnings of meme consumption, offering insights into the peculiar allure of internet culture.

Moving beyond the traditional academic boundaries, our exploration draws inspiration from a variety of sources that traverse the landscape of popular culture. *Memes and Their Influence: A Sociocultural Analysis* by Gupta (2020) provides a comprehensive overview of meme phenomena, delving into the unexpected ways in which internet humor permeates societal consciousness. Additionally, *The Art of Zombies: From Horror Fiction to Pop Culture* by Thompson (2015) offers a captivating glimpse into the evolution of zombie lore and its profound impact on contemporary media.

In a departure from conventional research sources, we also draw upon fictional narratives that have contributed to the collective imagination surrounding zombies and humor. For instance, the apocalyptic humor in *Good Omens* by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett serves as a testament to the enduring fascination with fantastical scenarios of an impending apocalypse. Similarly, the satirical undertones of *The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy* by Douglas Adams resonate with the whimsical nature of internet culture and its penchant for playful absurdity.

In our quest to unravel the peculiar connection between the "bazinga" meme and the popularity of zombies, we found inspiration in unexpected places. Animated series such as *Scooby-Doo* and *Phineas and Ferb* tap into the realm of fictional mysteries and lighthearted absurdity, offering a lens through which to explore the intersection of humor and enigmatic phenomena. These seemingly disparate narratives, while not traditionally considered academic sources, provide valuable insights into the interplay of cultural motifs and internet humor.

As we navigate the unconventional terrain linking the "bazinga" phenomenon and the allure of zombies, it becomes evident that the convergence of humor and apocalyptic musings transcends conventional disciplinary boundaries. Our foray into this uncharted territory not only underscores the capricious nature of internet phenomena but also highlights the unforeseen intersections between popular culture and scholarly inquiry.

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

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme and Google searches for 'zombies'. 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 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]]
"Zombie Apocalypse: Exploring the Correlation Between 'Bazinga' Popularity and Google Searches for Zombies"

[[ABSTRACT]]
As the meme culture continues to evolve and permeate into the fabric of society, there is an increasing fascination with understanding the underlying factors driving the popularity of internet memes. In this study, we delve into the uncharted territory of the correlation between the widespread adoption of the "bazinga" meme and the frequency of Google searches for 'zombies.' Utilizing data from Google Trends and a healthy dose of curiosity, our research team embarked on a statistical analysis spanning from 2006 to 2023. The results revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8497924 with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a robust relationship between the two seemingly unrelated concepts. Our findings prompt further investigation into the intricacies of internet culture and its peculiar influences on search behavior. This exploration not only sheds light on the curious connection between humor and apocalyptic fantasies but also underscores the whimsical nature of internet phenomena - as we navigate the digital landscape, it appears that the "bazinga" may hold the key to the impending zombie invasion.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The realm of internet memes has become a fascinating area of study, where the convergence of humor, communication, and cultural phenomena manifests in unpredictable ways. The "bazinga" meme, popularized by the TV show *The Big Bang Theory*, has emerged as a prominent cultural reference, often used to punctuate witty remarks or humorous situations. In parallel, society's enduring fascination with zombies has persisted, with the undead creeping into literature, film, and folklore for centuries. These seemingly disparate cultural artifacts have captured the public imagination and inspired a blend of fascination and amusement.
As digital anthropologists, our research team was propelled by the enigmatic allure of the "bazinga" meme and the enduring fascination with zombies. We embarked on a quest to explore the uncharted territory of their peculiar relationship. Our mission was to disentangle the seemingly incongruous connection between the popular catchphrase "bazinga" and society's morbid curiosity about the walking dead. By leveraging data from Google Trends and harnessing the power of statistical analysis, we embarked on a journey to uncover the interplay between humor and apocalyptic fantasies in the digital landscape.
The objective of this paper is to present our findings on the correlation between the popularity of the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies. Through rigorous quantitative analysis and a sprinkle of academic curiosity, we aim to shed light on the peculiarities of internet culture and unravel the whimsical nexus between two seemingly unrelated phenomena. By delving into this unorthodox exploration, we endeavor to ignite discussions about the unconventional influences that shape online behavior and societal dynamics.
As we unearth the unexpected correlations and implications of our findings, it becomes evident that the "bazinga" meme may hold unsuspected relevance in decoding the enigma of the impending zombie invasion. This research not only contributes to the burgeoning field of digital sociology but also showcases the playful and capricious nature of internet phenomena. Our endeavor to unravel these trends bespeaks the quirkiness of human behavior in the digital age, as we confront the unlikely intersection of humor and impending catastrophe.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

ChatGPT:

**[[METHODOLOGY]]**

The methodology employed in this study involved a multidimensional approach, combining the zeal of internet sleuths with the precision of statistical analysis. Our research team embarked on a digital odyssey, traversing the vast expanse of the internet to gather data relevant to the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies. Primarily, we extracted information from Google Trends, that mystical oracle of search behavior, spanning the time period from 2006 to 2023. We also delved into other mysterious corners of the internet, seeking insights and clues from forums, social media platforms, and the labyrinthine depths of meme repositories.

Firstly, in the quest for the elusive "bazinga" meme, we meticulously scoured the digital landscape, navigating through countless cat videos and nonsensical TikTok challenges, until we stumbled upon the hallowed grounds of *The Big Bang Theory* fandom. Here, within the sacred scrolls of internet humor, we discovered an abundance of "bazinga" references in various formats, from static images to animated GIFs and delightfully absurd memes. It was amidst this veritable menagerie of quirk and whimsy that we assembled a comprehensive dataset encapsulating the temporal ebbs and flows of "bazinga" popularity.

Simultaneously, in the pursuit of the enigmatic undead, we cast our digital nets into the vast ocean of Google searches. The term "zombies" beckoned to us with its eerie allure, prompting us to traverse the digital graveyard of search queries. We carefully extracted search volume data, peering into the collective consciousness of internet denizens, as they sought information about the shambling horrors of the undead.

Having amassed these cryptic datasets, we undertook the arduous task of wrangling the unruly numbers and subjecting them to the rigors of statistical analysis. Employing the arcane arts of correlation and regression, we sought to uncover the clandestine connections between the whimsical "bazinga" meme and society's morbid fascination with zombies. Our statistical models, honed through countless iterations and caffeinated contemplation, revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8497924, accompanied by a p-value that gleefully winked at conventional significance thresholds. The resulting statistical portrait painted a compelling narrative of the entwined destinies of "bazinga" and zombies, captivating our academic sensibilities with its unexpected twists and turns.

In summary, our methodological concoction comprised equal parts digital sleuthing, statistical alchemy, and a dash of academic fervor, yielding a prodigious exploration of the interplay between internet memes and the macabre. This multidimensional approach allowed us to investigate the correlation between the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies with a rigorously whimsical spirit, revealing profound implications for our understanding of internet phenomena and the capricious nature of human behavior.

*p.s.: We also made sure to consume copious amounts of coffee and indulge in the occasional meme break to maintain our scholarly stamina.*

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

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme and Google searches for 'zombies'. 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 Google Trends and Google Trends .

For the time period 2006 to 2023, you found a correlation 0.8497924, r-squared of 0.7221470, 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]]
"Zombie Apocalypse: Exploring the Correlation Between 'Bazinga' Popularity and Google Searches for Zombies"

[[ABSTRACT]]
As the meme culture continues to evolve and permeate into the fabric of society, there is an increasing fascination with understanding the underlying factors driving the popularity of internet memes. In this study, we delve into the uncharted territory of the correlation between the widespread adoption of the "bazinga" meme and the frequency of Google searches for 'zombies.' Utilizing data from Google Trends and a healthy dose of curiosity, our research team embarked on a statistical analysis spanning from 2006 to 2023. The results revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8497924 with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a robust relationship between the two seemingly unrelated concepts. Our findings prompt further investigation into the intricacies of internet culture and its peculiar influences on search behavior. This exploration not only sheds light on the curious connection between humor and apocalyptic fantasies but also underscores the whimsical nature of internet phenomena - as we navigate the digital landscape, it appears that the "bazinga" may hold the key to the impending zombie invasion.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
INTRODUCTION
The realm of internet memes has become a fascinating area of study, where the convergence of humor, communication, and cultural phenomena manifests in unpredictable ways. The "bazinga" meme, popularized by the TV show *The Big Bang Theory*, has emerged as a prominent cultural reference, often used to punctuate witty remarks or humorous situations. In parallel, society's enduring fascination with zombies has persisted, with the undead creeping into literature, film, and folklore for centuries. These seemingly disparate cultural artifacts have captured the public imagination and inspired a blend of fascination and amusement.
As digital anthropologists, our research team was propelled by the enigmatic allure of the "bazinga" meme and the enduring fascination with zombies. We embarked on a quest to explore the uncharted territory of their peculiar relationship. Our mission was to disentangle the seemingly incongruous connection between the popular catchphrase "bazinga" and society's morbid curiosity about the walking dead. By leveraging data from Google Trends and harnessing the power of statistical analysis, we embarked on a journey to uncover the interplay between humor and apocalyptic fantasies in the digital landscape.
The objective of this paper is to present our findings on the correlation between the popularity of the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies. Through rigorous quantitative analysis and a sprinkle of academic curiosity, we aim to shed light on the peculiarities of internet culture and unravel the whimsical nexus between two seemingly unrelated phenomena. By delving into this unorthodox exploration, we endeavor to ignite discussions about the unconventional influences that shape online behavior and societal dynamics.
As we unearth the unexpected correlations and implications of our findings, it becomes evident that the "bazinga" meme may hold unsuspected relevance in decoding the enigma of the impending zombie invasion. This research not only contributes to the burgeoning field of digital sociology but also showcases the playful and capricious nature of internet phenomena. Our endeavor to unravel these trends bespeaks the quirkiness of human behavior in the digital age, as we confront the unlikely intersection of humor and impending catastrophe.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]

ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The statistical analysis of the data collected from Google Trends revealed a notable correlation between the popularity of the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies. The correlation coefficient, computed to be 0.8497924, indicates a strong positive relationship between the two variables. Additionally, the calculated r-squared value of 0.7221470 further signifies the robustness of this relationship, suggesting that approximately 72% of the variability in zombie searches can be explained by the popularity of the "bazinga" meme. Moreover, the associated p-value being less than 0.01 provides compelling evidence to reject the null hypothesis, supporting the notion that there is a significant correlation between these seemingly unrelated concepts.

Upon examining the scatterplot (Fig. 1), one can discern a clear and prominent clustering of data points, affirming the existence of a discernible pattern between the two variables. Although we hesitate to jump to any definitive conclusions, the association between the "bazinga" meme and interest in zombies appears unmistakable.

It's intriguing to imagine the implications of these findings - could the interplay between a catchphrase from a sitcom and societal curiosity about the undead hold inherent truths about human cognition and cultural zeitgeist? While the results of this study may initially appear comical, the statistical significance of the correlation prompts a deeper contemplation of the underlying dynamics driving internet culture and popular fascination with apocalyptic themes.

In conclusion, our research has unveiled a compelling correlation between the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies, offering a glimpse into the peculiar interconnections within digital phenomena. These findings prompt further exploration into the whimsical yet intriguing influences on online behavior, underscoring the droll and enigmatic nature of internet culture. As we await the impending zombie invasion, it seems that the "bazinga" may indeed serve as an unexpected harbinger of the digital apocalypse.

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

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme and Google searches for 'zombies'. 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]]
"Zombie Apocalypse: Exploring the Correlation Between 'Bazinga' Popularity and Google Searches for Zombies"

[[ABSTRACT]]
As the meme culture continues to evolve and permeate into the fabric of society, there is an increasing fascination with understanding the underlying factors driving the popularity of internet memes. In this study, we delve into the uncharted territory of the correlation between the widespread adoption of the "bazinga" meme and the frequency of Google searches for 'zombies.' Utilizing data from Google Trends and a healthy dose of curiosity, our research team embarked on a statistical analysis spanning from 2006 to 2023. The results revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8497924 with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a robust relationship between the two seemingly unrelated concepts. Our findings prompt further investigation into the intricacies of internet culture and its peculiar influences on search behavior. This exploration not only sheds light on the curious connection between humor and apocalyptic fantasies but also underscores the whimsical nature of internet phenomena - as we navigate the digital landscape, it appears that the "bazinga" may hold the key to the impending zombie invasion.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The investigation of internet memes and their influence on societal behaviors has received increased attention in recent years. Smith et al. (2017) examined the impact of viral memes on consumer behavior, highlighting the surprising ways in which internet humor can shape online activity. In a similar vein, Doe and Jones (2019) explored the psychological underpinnings of meme consumption, offering insights into the peculiar allure of internet culture.
Moving beyond the traditional academic boundaries, our exploration draws inspiration from a variety of sources that traverse the landscape of popular culture. *Memes and Their Influence: A Sociocultural Analysis* by Gupta (2020) provides a comprehensive overview of meme phenomena, delving into the unexpected ways in which internet humor permeates societal consciousness. Additionally, *The Art of Zombies: From Horror Fiction to Pop Culture* by Thompson (2015) offers a captivating glimpse into the evolution of zombie lore and its profound impact on contemporary media.
In a departure from conventional research sources, we also draw upon fictional narratives that have contributed to the collective imagination surrounding zombies and humor. For instance, the apocalyptic humor in *Good Omens* by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett serves as a testament to the enduring fascination with fantastical scenarios of an impending apocalypse. Similarly, the satirical undertones of *The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy* by Douglas Adams resonate with the whimsical nature of internet culture and its penchant for playful absurdity.
In our quest to unravel the peculiar connection between the "bazinga" meme and the popularity of zombies, we found inspiration in unexpected places. Animated series such as *Scooby-Doo* and *Phineas and Ferb* tap into the realm of fictional mysteries and lighthearted absurdity, offering a lens through which to explore the intersection of humor and enigmatic phenomena. These seemingly disparate narratives, while not traditionally considered academic sources, provide valuable insights into the interplay of cultural motifs and internet humor.
As we navigate the unconventional terrain linking the "bazinga" phenomenon and the allure of zombies, it becomes evident that the convergence of humor and apocalyptic musings transcends conventional disciplinary boundaries. Our foray into this uncharted territory not only underscores the capricious nature of internet phenomena but also highlights the unforeseen intersections between popular culture and scholarly inquiry.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the data collected from Google Trends revealed a notable correlation between the popularity of the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies. The correlation coefficient, computed to be 0.8497924, indicates a strong positive relationship between the two variables. Additionally, the calculated r-squared value of 0.7221470 further signifies the robustness of this relationship, suggesting that approximately 72% of the variability in zombie searches can be explained by the popularity of the "bazinga" meme. Moreover, the associated p-value being less than 0.01 provides compelling evidence to reject the null hypothesis, supporting the notion that there is a significant correlation between these seemingly unrelated concepts.
Upon examining the scatterplot (Fig. 1), one can discern a clear and prominent clustering of data points, affirming the existence of a discernible pattern between the two variables. Although we hesitate to jump to any definitive conclusions, the association between the "bazinga" meme and interest in zombies appears unmistakable.
It's intriguing to imagine the implications of these findings - could the interplay between a catchphrase from a sitcom and societal curiosity about the undead hold inherent truths about human cognition and cultural zeitgeist? While the results of this study may initially appear comical, the statistical significance of the correlation prompts a deeper contemplation of the underlying dynamics driving internet culture and popular fascination with apocalyptic themes.
In conclusion, our research has unveiled a compelling correlation between the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies, offering a glimpse into the peculiar interconnections within digital phenomena. These findings prompt further exploration into the whimsical yet intriguing influences on online behavior, underscoring the droll and enigmatic nature of internet culture. As we await the impending zombie invasion, it seems that the "bazinga" may indeed serve as an unexpected harbinger of the digital apocalypse.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The findings of this study provide compelling evidence of a substantial correlation between the 'bazinga' meme and Google searches for zombies, corroborating the notion that seemingly disparate internet phenomena may exhibit unexpected connections that warrant scholarly inquiry. Our results align with prior research by Smith et al. (2017), who emphasized the influential role of viral memes in shaping online activity, albeit without delving into the undead territory. Furthermore, the psychological underpinnings of meme consumption explored by Doe and Jones (2019) provide a context for understanding the intriguing allure of internet culture, which our study extends to the realm of apocalyptic fascinations.

The statistically robust relationship uncovered in our analysis emphasizes the importance of recognizing the whimsical yet significant influences that permeate digital landscapes. While our exploration delves into uncharted territory, the parallels with Gupta's (2020) sociocultural analysis of meme influence hint at the nuanced ways in which internet humor intertwines with societal consciousness. Additionally, the profound impact of zombie lore on contemporary media, as elucidated by Thompson (2015), finds resonance in our unexpected findings, illuminating the unexpected fusion of humor and dystopian fantasies in our digital age.

The unexpected relevance of fictional narratives, such as *Good Omens* and *The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy*, in contextualizing the intersection of humor and apocalyptic motifs, underscores the interdisciplinary nature of our inquiry. Despite the seemingly unconventional sources, these narratives, akin to our statistical investigation, shed light on the enigmatic interplay of popular culture and scholarly curiosity.

As we confront the implications of our research, it becomes apparent that our findings not only underscore the capricious nature of internet phenomena but also underscore the unforeseen intersections between popular culture and academic investigation. The correlation between the "bazinga" meme and interest in zombies unravels a peculiar enigma, prompting a deeper contemplation of the ambiguities that drive digital culture. In light of these insights, it is evident that the playful absurdity of internet memes may hold unforeseen truths about human cognition and cultural zeitgeist, while simultaneously hinting at the unexpected connections underlying societal fascination with apocalyptic themes.

In conclusion, the correlation uncovered in this study invites further exploration into the idiosyncrasies of internet culture and its influences on online behavior, emphasizing the peculiar and fathomless nature of digital phenomena. The 'bazinga' meme and its curious association with zombies offer a comedic yet thought-provoking lens through which to contemplate the whimsical yet significant interplay of internet humor and societal fascinations, hinting at the convoluted tapestry of human curiosity in the digital age.

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

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme and Google searches for 'zombies'. 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]]
"Zombie Apocalypse: Exploring the Correlation Between 'Bazinga' Popularity and Google Searches for Zombies"

[[ABSTRACT]]
As the meme culture continues to evolve and permeate into the fabric of society, there is an increasing fascination with understanding the underlying factors driving the popularity of internet memes. In this study, we delve into the uncharted territory of the correlation between the widespread adoption of the "bazinga" meme and the frequency of Google searches for 'zombies.' Utilizing data from Google Trends and a healthy dose of curiosity, our research team embarked on a statistical analysis spanning from 2006 to 2023. The results revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8497924 with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a robust relationship between the two seemingly unrelated concepts. Our findings prompt further investigation into the intricacies of internet culture and its peculiar influences on search behavior. This exploration not only sheds light on the curious connection between humor and apocalyptic fantasies but also underscores the whimsical nature of internet phenomena - as we navigate the digital landscape, it appears that the "bazinga" may hold the key to the impending zombie invasion.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The realm of internet memes has become a fascinating area of study, where the convergence of humor, communication, and cultural phenomena manifests in unpredictable ways. The "bazinga" meme, popularized by the TV show *The Big Bang Theory*, has emerged as a prominent cultural reference, often used to punctuate witty remarks or humorous situations. In parallel, society's enduring fascination with zombies has persisted, with the undead creeping into literature, film, and folklore for centuries. These seemingly disparate cultural artifacts have captured the public imagination and inspired a blend of fascination and amusement.
As digital anthropologists, our research team was propelled by the enigmatic allure of the "bazinga" meme and the enduring fascination with zombies. We embarked on a quest to explore the uncharted territory of their peculiar relationship. Our mission was to disentangle the seemingly incongruous connection between the popular catchphrase "bazinga" and society's morbid curiosity about the walking dead. By leveraging data from Google Trends and harnessing the power of statistical analysis, we embarked on a journey to uncover the interplay between humor and apocalyptic fantasies in the digital landscape.
The objective of this paper is to present our findings on the correlation between the popularity of the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies. Through rigorous quantitative analysis and a sprinkle of academic curiosity, we aim to shed light on the peculiarities of internet culture and unravel the whimsical nexus between two seemingly unrelated phenomena. By delving into this unorthodox exploration, we endeavor to ignite discussions about the unconventional influences that shape online behavior and societal dynamics.
As we unearth the unexpected correlations and implications of our findings, it becomes evident that the "bazinga" meme may hold unsuspected relevance in decoding the enigma of the impending zombie invasion. This research not only contributes to the burgeoning field of digital sociology but also showcases the playful and capricious nature of internet phenomena. Our endeavor to unravel these trends bespeaks the quirkiness of human behavior in the digital age, as we confront the unlikely intersection of humor and impending catastrophe.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the data collected from Google Trends revealed a notable correlation between the popularity of the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies. The correlation coefficient, computed to be 0.8497924, indicates a strong positive relationship between the two variables. Additionally, the calculated r-squared value of 0.7221470 further signifies the robustness of this relationship, suggesting that approximately 72% of the variability in zombie searches can be explained by the popularity of the "bazinga" meme. Moreover, the associated p-value being less than 0.01 provides compelling evidence to reject the null hypothesis, supporting the notion that there is a significant correlation between these seemingly unrelated concepts.
Upon examining the scatterplot (Fig. 1), one can discern a clear and prominent clustering of data points, affirming the existence of a discernible pattern between the two variables. Although we hesitate to jump to any definitive conclusions, the association between the "bazinga" meme and interest in zombies appears unmistakable.
It's intriguing to imagine the implications of these findings - could the interplay between a catchphrase from a sitcom and societal curiosity about the undead hold inherent truths about human cognition and cultural zeitgeist? While the results of this study may initially appear comical, the statistical significance of the correlation prompts a deeper contemplation of the underlying dynamics driving internet culture and popular fascination with apocalyptic themes.
In conclusion, our research has unveiled a compelling correlation between the "bazinga" meme and Google searches for zombies, offering a glimpse into the peculiar interconnections within digital phenomena. These findings prompt further exploration into the whimsical yet intriguing influences on online behavior, underscoring the droll and enigmatic nature of internet culture. As we await the impending zombie invasion, it seems that the "bazinga" may indeed serve as an unexpected harbinger of the digital apocalypse.

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Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]

ChatGPT:

CONCLUSION

In this study, we have unraveled a fascinating correlation between the "bazinga" meme and the frequency of Google searches for zombies, shedding light on the whimsical interplay between humor and apocalyptic fascinations in the digital domain. Our statistical analysis has revealed a robust relationship, challenging conventional wisdom and tickling our academic curiosity. The correlation coefficient of 0.8497924 and the r-squared value of 0.7221470 signify a substantial association, prompting a tantalizing exploration of the underlying psychosocial dynamics at play. The p-value less than 0.01 adds a sprinkle of statistical spice to this curious concoction, compelling us to reconsider the gravity of seemingly lighthearted internet phenomena.

The implications of these findings extend beyond the confines of mere amusement; they beckon us to contemplate the labyrinthine pathways of human cognition and cultural zeitgeist. As we navigate this unorthodox terrain, it becomes apparent that the "bazinga" meme may serve as a lighthearted yet potent indicator of societal inclinations – a proverbial canary in the digital coal mine, if you will.

However, as enticing as it may be to delve deeper into the rabbit hole of internet whimsy, it is prudent to exercise restraint and resist the temptation to unearth further correlations. Our research has provided a quirky glimpse into the peculiar interconnections within digital culture, prompting a chuckle and a raised eyebrow. It is clear that no more research is needed on this convoluted subject—well, at least until the zombies start knocking on our digital doors.

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 Zombie Apocalypse: Exploring the Correlation Between 'Bazinga' Popularity and Google Searches for Zombies. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Pop Culture and Statistical Analysis

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 Zombie Apocalypse: Exploring the Correlation Between 'Bazinga' Popularity and Google Searches for Zombies. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Institute for Humorous Studies

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled Zombie Apocalypse: Exploring the Correlation Between 'Bazinga' Popularity and Google Searches for Zombies with an abstract of As the meme culture continues to evolve and permeate into the fabric of society, there is an increasing fascination with understanding the underlying factors driving the popularity of internet memes. In this study, we delve into the uncharted territory of the correlation between the widespread adoption of the "bazinga" meme and the frequency of Google searches for 'zombies.' Utilizing data from Google Trends and a healthy dose of curiosity, our research team embarked on a statistical analysis spanning from 2006 to 2023. The results revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8497924 with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a robust relationship between the two seemingly unrelated concepts. Our findings prompt further investigation into the intricacies of internet culture and its peculiar influences on search behavior. This exploration not only sheds light on the curious connection between humor and apocalyptic fantasies but also underscores the whimsical nature of internet phenomena - as we navigate the digital landscape, it appears that the "bazinga" may hold the key to the impending zombie invasion.

ChatGPT:

"Bazinga" meme, Google searches, zombies, correlation, internet memes, humor, internet culture, statistical analysis, Google Trends, apocalyptic fantasies

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

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Data details

Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme
Detailed data title: Relative volume of Google searches for 'bazinga' (without quotes, in the United States)
Source: Google Trends
Additional Info: ^{See full details} 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 'bazinga' meme

Google searches for 'zombies'
Detailed data title: Relative volume of Google searches for 'zombies' (Worldwide, without quotes)
Source: Google Trends
Additional Info: ^{See full details} Relative search volume (not absolute numbers)

See what else correlates with Google searches for 'zombies'

Correlation r = 0.8497924 (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 = 0.7221470 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 72.2% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Google searches for 'zombies') is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme) over the 18 years from 2006 through 2023.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 8.04E-6.^Show 0.0000080431500702583080000000
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme.^Note More specifically the p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme if we had only tested one pair of variables one time.

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

Who is going to stop me? p-value reporting doesn't require me to report how many calculations I had to go through in order to find a low p-value!
On average, you will find a correaltion as strong as 0.85 in 0.000804% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 124,329 random variables^Note You don't actually need 124 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, ^Note 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.

[ 0.63, 0.94 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
^{Read more about the confidence interval} The confidence interval is an estimate the range of the value of the correlation coefficient, using the correlation itself as an input. The values are meant to be the low and high end of the correlation coefficient with 95% confidence.

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

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

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

	2006	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023
Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme (Relative popularity)	0.5	0.111111	0.75	12.4167	49.3333	37.4167	71.8333	49.3333	27.5833	21.5	14	11.6667	9.75	9.91667	8.41667	8.75	8	8.91667
Google searches for 'zombies' (Rel. search volume)	4.08333	5.08333	6.08333	17.9167	36.75	59.4167	67.5833	83.25	59	48.75	39.0833	28.25	24	17.75	23.6667	19	19.5	16.3

Why this works

Data dredging: I have 25,237 variables in my database. I compare all these variables against each other to find ones that randomly match up. That's 636,906,169 correlation calculations! This is called “data dredging.” Instead of starting with a hypothesis and testing it, I instead abused the data to see what correlations shake out. It’s a dangerous way to go about analysis, because any sufficiently large dataset will yield strong correlations completely at random.
Lack of causal connection: There is probably^Note Because these pages are automatically generated, it's possible that the two variables you are viewing are in fact causually related. I take steps to prevent the obvious ones from showing on the site (I don't let data about the weather in one city correlate with the weather in a neighboring city, for example), but sometimes they still pop up. If they are related, cool! You found a loophole.
no direct connection between these variables, despite what the AI says above. This is exacerbated by the fact that I used "Years" as the base variable. Lots of things happen in a year that are not related to each other! Most studies would use something like "one person" in stead of "one year" to be the "thing" studied.
Observations not independent: For many variables, sequential years are not independent of each other. If a population of people is continuously doing something every day, there is no reason to think they would suddenly change how they are doing that thing on January 1. A simple^Note Personally I don't find any p-value calculation to be 'simple,' but you know what I mean.
p-value calculation does not take this into account, so mathematically it appears less probable than it really is.

Try it yourself

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([0.5,0.111111,0.75,12.4167,49.3333,37.4167,71.8333,49.3333,27.5833,21.5,14,11.6667,9.75,9.91667,8.41667,8.75,8,8.91667,])
array_2 = np.array([4.08333,5.08333,6.08333,17.9167,36.75,59.4167,67.5833,83.25,59,48.75,39.0833,28.25,24,17.75,23.6667,19,19.5,16.3,])
array_1_name = "Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme"
array_2_name = "Google searches for 'zombies'"

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

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

Reuseable content

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

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

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

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

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

Download images for these variables:

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

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

Alternatively you can use a tool like Inkscape.
High resolution line chart, optimized for mobile
Alternative high resolution line chart
Scatterplot
Portable line chart (png)
Portable line chart (png), optimized for mobile
Line chart for only Popularity of the 'bazinga' meme
Line chart for only Google searches for 'zombies'
AI-generated correlation image
The spurious research paper: Zombie Apocalypse: Exploring the Correlation Between 'Bazinga' Popularity and Google Searches for Zombies

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Correlation ID: 5344 · Black Variable ID: 25120 · Red Variable ID: 1380


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