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Spurious correlation #5,647 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the second variable is Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme.  The chart goes from 2006 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
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AI explanation

The extra particulate matter in the air created the perfect conditions for the meme to go viral, acting as microscopic carriers of McKayla's unimpressed expression, spreading her image and the accompanying jokes like a contagious internet flu.

Create a meme inspired by the McKayla Maroney meme that in some way references Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan. 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 increases in Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan positively influenced Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
The Smoggy Side of Social Media: Air Pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the Phenomenon of the 'McKayla Maroney' Meme

Journal of Environmental Psychology and Internet Culture

Jan 2024

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




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

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Make the title punny if you can come up with clever pun. If not, make it sound serious.

Your research team used data from Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and p < 0.01 for 2006 to 2021.

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 Smoggy Side of Social Media: Air Pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the Phenomenon of the 'McKayla Maroney' Meme

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely connection between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the surge in popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. By harnessing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we sought to unravel this curious relationship. Our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 2006 to 2021, demonstrating a robust statistical link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena.

Air pollution, a longstanding environmental concern, has often been the subject of rigorous scientific investigation. However, our study introduces a whimsical twist to the narrative by exploring its unexpected interplay with the cultural phenomenon of internet memes. Harnessing the power of data analytics, we charted the ebbs and flows of air pollution levels and the corresponding peaks and troughs of 'McKayla Maroney' meme searches. The findings illuminated a striking synchronized pattern, prompting us to ponder the deeper implications and societal ramifications of this unusual correlation.

In the spirit of blending light-heartedness with academia, our research team couldn't resist a dad joke: "Why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe."

In essence, this study not only sheds light on an unlikely nexus between air pollution and internet culture, but also underscores the multidimensional nature of research in the digital age. With a nod to humor and scientific rigor, we hope to spark further curiosity and exploration of unexpected connections in our complex world.


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

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. 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 Smoggy Side of Social Media: Air Pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the Phenomenon of the 'McKayla Maroney' Meme

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely connection between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the surge in popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. By harnessing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we sought to unravel this curious relationship. Our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 2006 to 2021, demonstrating a robust statistical link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena.

Air pollution, a longstanding environmental concern, has often been the subject of rigorous scientific investigation. However, our study introduces a whimsical twist to the narrative by exploring its unexpected interplay with the cultural phenomenon of internet memes. Harnessing the power of data analytics, we charted the ebbs and flows of air pollution levels and the corresponding peaks and troughs of 'McKayla Maroney' meme searches. The findings illuminated a striking synchronized pattern, prompting us to ponder the deeper implications and societal ramifications of this unusual correlation.

In the spirit of blending light-heartedness with academia, our research team couldn't resist a dad joke: "Why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe."

In essence, this study not only sheds light on an unlikely nexus between air pollution and internet culture, but also underscores the multidimensional nature of research in the digital age. With a nod to humor and scientific rigor, we hope to spark further curiosity and exploration of unexpected connections in our complex world.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

In the ever-evolving landscape of research, there are occasional instances that defy traditional expectations and venture into the realms of the quirky and offbeat. Our investigation into the correlation between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the rise of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme epitomizes this delightful detour. It's as if the scientific method and internet memes decided to do a fusion dance, resulting in a whimsical yet thought-provoking phenomenon. We embarked on this inquiry with the same sense of wonder as a chemist admiring a beautifully balanced equation - albeit one involving particulate matter and internet virality.

As researchers, we often find ourselves entrenched in weighty matters such as environmental impact and cultural trends. So, when the opportunity arose to examine a correlation that felt like the Bacon number of environmental science – slightly unexpected but strangely fascinating – we couldn't resist. It was akin to stumbling upon a rare Pokémon in the tall grass of data analysis, leaving us both flabbergasted and inexplicably enthralled.

Picture this: the air in Muskegon carrying not just nitrogen and sulfur compounds, but also whispers of viral content navigating the digital stratosphere. It's like observing an intricate dance between atmospheric pollutants and the playful musings of internet users – a tango of particulate matter and pop culture, if you will. Our findings revealed a correlation coefficient that stood out like a meme in a forum of scholarly articles, daring us to pause and ponder the serendipity of it all.

Before delving into the methodology and results, we must address the elephant in the room (or should we say smog?): why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe. It's as if the universe conspired to infuse levity into the rigorous pursuit of knowledge, reminding us that even in the realm of academia, there's room for the joyful dance of unanticipated connections.

In this paper, we aim to elucidate the unexpected link between air pollution and internet culture, adding an element of playfulness to the often austere corridors of scientific discourse. Stay tuned for the unraveling of this delightful conundrum, where we dissect the data amidst the chuckles and the "Aha!" moments.


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

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

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

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

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

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The Smoggy Side of Social Media: Air Pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the Phenomenon of the 'McKayla Maroney' Meme

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely connection between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the surge in popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. By harnessing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we sought to unravel this curious relationship. Our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 2006 to 2021, demonstrating a robust statistical link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena.

Air pollution, a longstanding environmental concern, has often been the subject of rigorous scientific investigation. However, our study introduces a whimsical twist to the narrative by exploring its unexpected interplay with the cultural phenomenon of internet memes. Harnessing the power of data analytics, we charted the ebbs and flows of air pollution levels and the corresponding peaks and troughs of 'McKayla Maroney' meme searches. The findings illuminated a striking synchronized pattern, prompting us to ponder the deeper implications and societal ramifications of this unusual correlation.

In the spirit of blending light-heartedness with academia, our research team couldn't resist a dad joke: "Why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe."

In essence, this study not only sheds light on an unlikely nexus between air pollution and internet culture, but also underscores the multidimensional nature of research in the digital age. With a nod to humor and scientific rigor, we hope to spark further curiosity and exploration of unexpected connections in our complex world.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
In the ever-evolving landscape of research, there are occasional instances that defy traditional expectations and venture into the realms of the quirky and offbeat. Our investigation into the correlation between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the rise of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme epitomizes this delightful detour. It's as if the scientific method and internet memes decided to do a fusion dance, resulting in a whimsical yet thought-provoking phenomenon. We embarked on this inquiry with the same sense of wonder as a chemist admiring a beautifully balanced equation - albeit one involving particulate matter and internet virality.
As researchers, we often find ourselves entrenched in weighty matters such as environmental impact and cultural trends. So, when the opportunity arose to examine a correlation that felt like the Bacon number of environmental science – slightly unexpected but strangely fascinating – we couldn't resist. It was akin to stumbling upon a rare Pokémon in the tall grass of data analysis, leaving us both flabbergasted and inexplicably enthralled.
Picture this: the air in Muskegon carrying not just nitrogen and sulfur compounds, but also whispers of viral content navigating the digital stratosphere. It's like observing an intricate dance between atmospheric pollutants and the playful musings of internet users – a tango of particulate matter and pop culture, if you will. Our findings revealed a correlation coefficient that stood out like a meme in a forum of scholarly articles, daring us to pause and ponder the serendipity of it all.
Before delving into the methodology and results, we must address the elephant in the room (or should we say smog?): why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe. It's as if the universe conspired to infuse levity into the rigorous pursuit of knowledge, reminding us that even in the realm of academia, there's room for the joyful dance of unanticipated connections.
In this paper, we aim to elucidate the unexpected link between air pollution and internet culture, adding an element of playfulness to the often austere corridors of scientific discourse. Stay tuned for the unraveling of this delightful conundrum, where we dissect the data amidst the chuckles and the "Aha!" moments.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The connection between air pollution and internet memes may appear, at first glance, to be a matter of whimsy rather than scientific inquiry. However, the synthesis of diverse realms of study can often yield surprising revelations, akin to finding a hidden treasure chest in the midst of a sprawling intellectual landscape. In Smith et al.'s seminal work, "Environmental Impacts and Cultural Phenomena," the authors find an underexplored relationship between environmental factors and the propagation of internet memes, providing the initial impetus for our investigation.

In their exploration of the dynamics of internet culture, Doe and Jones, in "Digital Trends and Societal Influences," note the intricate interplay between environmental stimuli and online phenomena. While these studies may seem light-years away from the specific focus of our inquiry, they lay the groundwork for contemplating the broader implications of Earth's atmospheric quality on the digital sphere.

Shifting gears slightly but still anchored in the realm of air quality, "The Air We Breathe: A Global Perspective" by Air Quality Research Group delves into the intricate web of factors influencing air pollution levels in various regions. This work serves as a reminder that behind every whimsical correlation lies a complex tapestry of environmental variables, providing a sobering backdrop to our investigation.

On the cultural front, "Memes and Modern Society: A Comprehensive Analysis" by Digital Culture Perspectives offers insights into the ebbs and flows of viral content on the internet. While not explicitly addressing environmental influences, this study prompts us to ponder the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate phenomena, setting the stage for our inquiry into the 'McKayla Maroney' meme's meteoric rise against the backdrop of Muskegon's air quality.

Amidst the weighty tomes of research, it's also important to acknowledge the influence of fictional narratives that weave strands of reality with imaginative threads. In works such as "The Meme Master's Dilemma" and "Toxic Tales from Muskegon," fiction blends with the real world, reminding us that truth can often be stranger than fiction. These literary escapades serve as a gentle nudge to embrace the unexpected and invite a sense of playfulness into the scientific arena.

Venturing further into the offbeat, we also drew inspiration from the unlikeliest of sources – the unending scrolls of CVS receipts. While ostensibly unrelated to our research, their labyrinthine expanses provided a metaphor for the convoluted journey of deciphering correlations. Much like untangling a ream of cryptic purchase history into coherent insights, our investigation unraveled the curious link between airborne pollutants and meme propagation.

In the spirit of marrying academia with levity, we couldn't resist another dad joke interlude: "Did you hear about the atmospheric scientist who always knew the latest memes? They had a flair for 'air'-reverent humor!" Just as the scientist brings a light-hearted twist to their expertise, our study seeks to infuse a sense of joy into the exploration of unconventional connections.


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

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. 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 Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends . You used data from 2006 to 2021

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

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The Smoggy Side of Social Media: Air Pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the Phenomenon of the 'McKayla Maroney' Meme

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely connection between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the surge in popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. By harnessing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we sought to unravel this curious relationship. Our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 2006 to 2021, demonstrating a robust statistical link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena.

Air pollution, a longstanding environmental concern, has often been the subject of rigorous scientific investigation. However, our study introduces a whimsical twist to the narrative by exploring its unexpected interplay with the cultural phenomenon of internet memes. Harnessing the power of data analytics, we charted the ebbs and flows of air pollution levels and the corresponding peaks and troughs of 'McKayla Maroney' meme searches. The findings illuminated a striking synchronized pattern, prompting us to ponder the deeper implications and societal ramifications of this unusual correlation.

In the spirit of blending light-heartedness with academia, our research team couldn't resist a dad joke: "Why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe."

In essence, this study not only sheds light on an unlikely nexus between air pollution and internet culture, but also underscores the multidimensional nature of research in the digital age. With a nod to humor and scientific rigor, we hope to spark further curiosity and exploration of unexpected connections in our complex world.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
In the ever-evolving landscape of research, there are occasional instances that defy traditional expectations and venture into the realms of the quirky and offbeat. Our investigation into the correlation between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the rise of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme epitomizes this delightful detour. It's as if the scientific method and internet memes decided to do a fusion dance, resulting in a whimsical yet thought-provoking phenomenon. We embarked on this inquiry with the same sense of wonder as a chemist admiring a beautifully balanced equation - albeit one involving particulate matter and internet virality.
As researchers, we often find ourselves entrenched in weighty matters such as environmental impact and cultural trends. So, when the opportunity arose to examine a correlation that felt like the Bacon number of environmental science – slightly unexpected but strangely fascinating – we couldn't resist. It was akin to stumbling upon a rare Pokémon in the tall grass of data analysis, leaving us both flabbergasted and inexplicably enthralled.
Picture this: the air in Muskegon carrying not just nitrogen and sulfur compounds, but also whispers of viral content navigating the digital stratosphere. It's like observing an intricate dance between atmospheric pollutants and the playful musings of internet users – a tango of particulate matter and pop culture, if you will. Our findings revealed a correlation coefficient that stood out like a meme in a forum of scholarly articles, daring us to pause and ponder the serendipity of it all.
Before delving into the methodology and results, we must address the elephant in the room (or should we say smog?): why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe. It's as if the universe conspired to infuse levity into the rigorous pursuit of knowledge, reminding us that even in the realm of academia, there's room for the joyful dance of unanticipated connections.
In this paper, we aim to elucidate the unexpected link between air pollution and internet culture, adding an element of playfulness to the often austere corridors of scientific discourse. Stay tuned for the unraveling of this delightful conundrum, where we dissect the data amidst the chuckles and the "Aha!" moments.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To embark on this scientific journey that felt like wandering through the labyrinth of internet culture with a compass made of air quality metrics, we began by meticulously collecting data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends. Our team of intrepid researchers scoured the digital landscape with the fervor of treasure hunters seeking the golden correlation between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan, and the skyrocketing popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. It was like searching for a needle in a haystack, only the needle was a statistical anomaly and the haystack was the vast expanse of online data.

Our first step was to quantify the levels of air pollutants in Muskegon, including atmospheric particles, ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. We harnessed the power of EPA's comprehensive datasets, which felt like navigating a library of chemical elements, except these were compounds looming in the atmosphere rather than neatly arranged in the periodic table. This phase of data collection was akin to assembling puzzle pieces made of molecular mosaics, all while keeping an eye out for the occasional statistical unicorn.

Having acquired the atmospheric data, we turned our attention to the intricate realm of internet search behavior. Google Trends became our digital telescope, enabling us to observe the celestial dance of online queries and trends. Like astrophysicists chasing cosmic phenomena, we meticulously tracked the search volume for the 'McKayla Maroney' meme, delving into its peaks and valleys with the zeal of meme enthusiasts during a viral outbreak.

Now, keeping track of air pollutants and internet memes may seem as disconnected as a one-eyed cyclops trying to find a pair of sunglasses. However, statistical analysis came to our aid, serving as the interconnecting bridge between these seemingly disparate entities. We employed robust methodologies such as time-series analysis, cross-correlation functions, and regression models to unveil the hidden threads binding air pollution and meme popularity. It was like untangling a complex web of statistical intricacies, only the threads were made of data points and the web resembled a cat's cradle of correlation.

Upon crunching the numbers and subjecting the data to rigorous scrutiny, we unearthed a correlation coefficient that shone like a beacon in the fog of uncertainty, boasting a value of 0.8867933 with p < 0.01 for the period from 2006 to 2021. This statistical revelation felt like discovering a rare gem in the rough of scientific anomalies, compelling us to acknowledge the whimsical bond between air pollution and digital trends.

In a manner reminiscent of an alchemist transmuting base metals into gold, our research team synthesized the raw data into insights that illuminated the unexpected nexus between air pollution in Muskegon and the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. The novelty of our approach allowed us to crack the code of this curious correlation, infusing the scientific process with a touch of playful curiosity.

Stay tuned for the unveiling of our results, as we unravel the enigmatic dance of air pollution and meme virality amidst the whirlwind of statistical jargon and unexpected connections.


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

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. 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 Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends .

For the time period 2006 to 2021, you found a correlation 0.8867933, r-squared of 0.7864024, 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 Smoggy Side of Social Media: Air Pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the Phenomenon of the 'McKayla Maroney' Meme

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely connection between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the surge in popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. By harnessing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we sought to unravel this curious relationship. Our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 2006 to 2021, demonstrating a robust statistical link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena.

Air pollution, a longstanding environmental concern, has often been the subject of rigorous scientific investigation. However, our study introduces a whimsical twist to the narrative by exploring its unexpected interplay with the cultural phenomenon of internet memes. Harnessing the power of data analytics, we charted the ebbs and flows of air pollution levels and the corresponding peaks and troughs of 'McKayla Maroney' meme searches. The findings illuminated a striking synchronized pattern, prompting us to ponder the deeper implications and societal ramifications of this unusual correlation.

In the spirit of blending light-heartedness with academia, our research team couldn't resist a dad joke: "Why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe."

In essence, this study not only sheds light on an unlikely nexus between air pollution and internet culture, but also underscores the multidimensional nature of research in the digital age. With a nod to humor and scientific rigor, we hope to spark further curiosity and exploration of unexpected connections in our complex world.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
In the ever-evolving landscape of research, there are occasional instances that defy traditional expectations and venture into the realms of the quirky and offbeat. Our investigation into the correlation between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the rise of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme epitomizes this delightful detour. It's as if the scientific method and internet memes decided to do a fusion dance, resulting in a whimsical yet thought-provoking phenomenon. We embarked on this inquiry with the same sense of wonder as a chemist admiring a beautifully balanced equation - albeit one involving particulate matter and internet virality.
As researchers, we often find ourselves entrenched in weighty matters such as environmental impact and cultural trends. So, when the opportunity arose to examine a correlation that felt like the Bacon number of environmental science – slightly unexpected but strangely fascinating – we couldn't resist. It was akin to stumbling upon a rare Pokémon in the tall grass of data analysis, leaving us both flabbergasted and inexplicably enthralled.
Picture this: the air in Muskegon carrying not just nitrogen and sulfur compounds, but also whispers of viral content navigating the digital stratosphere. It's like observing an intricate dance between atmospheric pollutants and the playful musings of internet users – a tango of particulate matter and pop culture, if you will. Our findings revealed a correlation coefficient that stood out like a meme in a forum of scholarly articles, daring us to pause and ponder the serendipity of it all.
Before delving into the methodology and results, we must address the elephant in the room (or should we say smog?): why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe. It's as if the universe conspired to infuse levity into the rigorous pursuit of knowledge, reminding us that even in the realm of academia, there's room for the joyful dance of unanticipated connections.
In this paper, we aim to elucidate the unexpected link between air pollution and internet culture, adding an element of playfulness to the often austere corridors of scientific discourse. Stay tuned for the unraveling of this delightful conundrum, where we dissect the data amidst the chuckles and the "Aha!" moments.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

Our analysis of the data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends left us breathless – pun intended – with the revelation of a robust correlation between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. With a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and a p-value less than 0.01, this connection proved to be more than just a breath of fresh air in the world of research; it's a statistical match made in heaven, or should we say in the hazy skies of Muskegon!

Fig. 1 showcases a scatterplot that visually encapsulates the compelling relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. It's as if the data points are doing the wave – the statistical wave, that is – as they align themselves in synchrony, akin to the harmonious choreography of a viral video. If only statistical analysis were as captivating as a meme; alas, we'll have to settle for the visual spectacle of this scatterplot!

"Dad joke alert! Why do we never tell secrets on a farm? Because the potatoes have eyes and the corn has ears!" Just like that wholesomely corny joke, our findings invite a chuckle while delivering an insightful punchline. We've discovered that even in the realm of data analysis, there's room for a good laugh – or at least an eye roll!

This statistical revelation not only raises eyebrows but also beckons us to explore the whimsical side of statistical significance. The robust correlation coefficient highlights the intriguing interplay between environmental factors and cultural phenomena, perhaps serving as a metaphorical breath of fresh air in the often stifling corridors of academic research. Who would've thought that air pollution and internet memes could share such an unexpected bond? It's like discovering a treasure trove of dad jokes in a statistical manual – an amusing surprise that reminds us of the delightful unpredictability inherent in the pursuit of knowledge.

In essence, this study contributes a lighthearted yet empirically sound perspective to the discourse on environmental impact and cultural trends. It's a reminder that even the most improbable connections can yield valuable insights, and that statistical analysis can be as playful as a meme in the right context.


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

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. 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 Smoggy Side of Social Media: Air Pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the Phenomenon of the 'McKayla Maroney' Meme

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely connection between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the surge in popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. By harnessing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we sought to unravel this curious relationship. Our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 2006 to 2021, demonstrating a robust statistical link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena.

Air pollution, a longstanding environmental concern, has often been the subject of rigorous scientific investigation. However, our study introduces a whimsical twist to the narrative by exploring its unexpected interplay with the cultural phenomenon of internet memes. Harnessing the power of data analytics, we charted the ebbs and flows of air pollution levels and the corresponding peaks and troughs of 'McKayla Maroney' meme searches. The findings illuminated a striking synchronized pattern, prompting us to ponder the deeper implications and societal ramifications of this unusual correlation.

In the spirit of blending light-heartedness with academia, our research team couldn't resist a dad joke: "Why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe."

In essence, this study not only sheds light on an unlikely nexus between air pollution and internet culture, but also underscores the multidimensional nature of research in the digital age. With a nod to humor and scientific rigor, we hope to spark further curiosity and exploration of unexpected connections in our complex world.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The connection between air pollution and internet memes may appear, at first glance, to be a matter of whimsy rather than scientific inquiry. However, the synthesis of diverse realms of study can often yield surprising revelations, akin to finding a hidden treasure chest in the midst of a sprawling intellectual landscape. In Smith et al.'s seminal work, "Environmental Impacts and Cultural Phenomena," the authors find an underexplored relationship between environmental factors and the propagation of internet memes, providing the initial impetus for our investigation.
In their exploration of the dynamics of internet culture, Doe and Jones, in "Digital Trends and Societal Influences," note the intricate interplay between environmental stimuli and online phenomena. While these studies may seem light-years away from the specific focus of our inquiry, they lay the groundwork for contemplating the broader implications of Earth's atmospheric quality on the digital sphere.
Shifting gears slightly but still anchored in the realm of air quality, "The Air We Breathe: A Global Perspective" by Air Quality Research Group delves into the intricate web of factors influencing air pollution levels in various regions. This work serves as a reminder that behind every whimsical correlation lies a complex tapestry of environmental variables, providing a sobering backdrop to our investigation.
On the cultural front, "Memes and Modern Society: A Comprehensive Analysis" by Digital Culture Perspectives offers insights into the ebbs and flows of viral content on the internet. While not explicitly addressing environmental influences, this study prompts us to ponder the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate phenomena, setting the stage for our inquiry into the 'McKayla Maroney' meme's meteoric rise against the backdrop of Muskegon's air quality.
Amidst the weighty tomes of research, it's also important to acknowledge the influence of fictional narratives that weave strands of reality with imaginative threads. In works such as "The Meme Master's Dilemma" and "Toxic Tales from Muskegon," fiction blends with the real world, reminding us that truth can often be stranger than fiction. These literary escapades serve as a gentle nudge to embrace the unexpected and invite a sense of playfulness into the scientific arena.
Venturing further into the offbeat, we also drew inspiration from the unlikeliest of sources – the unending scrolls of CVS receipts. While ostensibly unrelated to our research, their labyrinthine expanses provided a metaphor for the convoluted journey of deciphering correlations. Much like untangling a ream of cryptic purchase history into coherent insights, our investigation unraveled the curious link between airborne pollutants and meme propagation.
In the spirit of marrying academia with levity, we couldn't resist another dad joke interlude: "Did you hear about the atmospheric scientist who always knew the latest memes? They had a flair for 'air'-reverent humor!" Just as the scientist brings a light-hearted twist to their expertise, our study seeks to infuse a sense of joy into the exploration of unconventional connections.

[[RESULTS]]
Our analysis of the data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends left us breathless – pun intended – with the revelation of a robust correlation between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. With a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and a p-value less than 0.01, this connection proved to be more than just a breath of fresh air in the world of research; it's a statistical match made in heaven, or should we say in the hazy skies of Muskegon!
Fig. 1 showcases a scatterplot that visually encapsulates the compelling relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. It's as if the data points are doing the wave – the statistical wave, that is – as they align themselves in synchrony, akin to the harmonious choreography of a viral video. If only statistical analysis were as captivating as a meme; alas, we'll have to settle for the visual spectacle of this scatterplot!
"Dad joke alert! Why do we never tell secrets on a farm? Because the potatoes have eyes and the corn has ears!" Just like that wholesomely corny joke, our findings invite a chuckle while delivering an insightful punchline. We've discovered that even in the realm of data analysis, there's room for a good laugh – or at least an eye roll!
This statistical revelation not only raises eyebrows but also beckons us to explore the whimsical side of statistical significance. The robust correlation coefficient highlights the intriguing interplay between environmental factors and cultural phenomena, perhaps serving as a metaphorical breath of fresh air in the often stifling corridors of academic research. Who would've thought that air pollution and internet memes could share such an unexpected bond? It's like discovering a treasure trove of dad jokes in a statistical manual – an amusing surprise that reminds us of the delightful unpredictability inherent in the pursuit of knowledge.
In essence, this study contributes a lighthearted yet empirically sound perspective to the discourse on environmental impact and cultural trends. It's a reminder that even the most improbable connections can yield valuable insights, and that statistical analysis can be as playful as a meme in the right context.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our findings lend empirical support to the prior research, particularly Smith et al.'s work on the interplay between environmental factors and internet memes. The robust correlation coefficient and p-value less than 0.01 align with the premise that environmental stimuli can indeed influence digital trends. It's a bit like when the winds of the gridiron blow in just the right direction, and the football punts humorously in-sync with a dad joke – a perfect "punt-uation," if you will.

In line with Doe and Jones’s observations, our study substantiates the notion that the digital landscape can be markedly swayed by the quality of the air we breathe. It's akin to watching a viral meme take flight on wings of statistical significance, propelled by the unseen forces of environmental impact. A bit like the moment when a punchline lands just right, leaving everyone in stitches – the statistical "ha-ha" if you will.

Furthermore, our results echo the sentiments expressed by "The Air We Breathe: A Global Perspective," validating the intricate web of environmental variables that underpin air pollution. It's as if our statistical analysis dons a pair of comedic glasses, revealing the subtle yet influential nuances of Earth's atmospheric dynamics. Just like a good pair of punny glasses, these insights offer a clear yet entertaining view of the relationships within our data.

Even in the realm of digital culture, our findings align with the tenets of Digital Culture Perspectives' analyses of viral content, highlighting the unexpected nexus between Muskegon's air quality and the surge of 'McKayla Maroney' meme searches. It's akin to witnessing the birth of a new internet sensation – a meme-born prodigy, nurtured by the unseen hand of air pollution. Just as a well-timed punchline can capture attention, these findings underscore the captivating nature of seemingly impromptu connections in the digital realm.

In sum, our study not only adds a whimsical twist to the discourse on environmental impact but also underscores the multifaceted nature of digital phenomena. It's like finding a hidden punchline in a sea of serious rhetoric – a lighthearted reminder that even the most unexpected correlations can hold scientific significance.


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

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. 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 Smoggy Side of Social Media: Air Pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the Phenomenon of the 'McKayla Maroney' Meme

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely connection between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the surge in popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. By harnessing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we sought to unravel this curious relationship. Our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 2006 to 2021, demonstrating a robust statistical link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena.

Air pollution, a longstanding environmental concern, has often been the subject of rigorous scientific investigation. However, our study introduces a whimsical twist to the narrative by exploring its unexpected interplay with the cultural phenomenon of internet memes. Harnessing the power of data analytics, we charted the ebbs and flows of air pollution levels and the corresponding peaks and troughs of 'McKayla Maroney' meme searches. The findings illuminated a striking synchronized pattern, prompting us to ponder the deeper implications and societal ramifications of this unusual correlation.

In the spirit of blending light-heartedness with academia, our research team couldn't resist a dad joke: "Why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe."

In essence, this study not only sheds light on an unlikely nexus between air pollution and internet culture, but also underscores the multidimensional nature of research in the digital age. With a nod to humor and scientific rigor, we hope to spark further curiosity and exploration of unexpected connections in our complex world.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
In the ever-evolving landscape of research, there are occasional instances that defy traditional expectations and venture into the realms of the quirky and offbeat. Our investigation into the correlation between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the rise of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme epitomizes this delightful detour. It's as if the scientific method and internet memes decided to do a fusion dance, resulting in a whimsical yet thought-provoking phenomenon. We embarked on this inquiry with the same sense of wonder as a chemist admiring a beautifully balanced equation - albeit one involving particulate matter and internet virality.
As researchers, we often find ourselves entrenched in weighty matters such as environmental impact and cultural trends. So, when the opportunity arose to examine a correlation that felt like the Bacon number of environmental science – slightly unexpected but strangely fascinating – we couldn't resist. It was akin to stumbling upon a rare Pokémon in the tall grass of data analysis, leaving us both flabbergasted and inexplicably enthralled.
Picture this: the air in Muskegon carrying not just nitrogen and sulfur compounds, but also whispers of viral content navigating the digital stratosphere. It's like observing an intricate dance between atmospheric pollutants and the playful musings of internet users – a tango of particulate matter and pop culture, if you will. Our findings revealed a correlation coefficient that stood out like a meme in a forum of scholarly articles, daring us to pause and ponder the serendipity of it all.
Before delving into the methodology and results, we must address the elephant in the room (or should we say smog?): why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe. It's as if the universe conspired to infuse levity into the rigorous pursuit of knowledge, reminding us that even in the realm of academia, there's room for the joyful dance of unanticipated connections.
In this paper, we aim to elucidate the unexpected link between air pollution and internet culture, adding an element of playfulness to the often austere corridors of scientific discourse. Stay tuned for the unraveling of this delightful conundrum, where we dissect the data amidst the chuckles and the "Aha!" moments.

[[RESULTS]]
Our analysis of the data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends left us breathless – pun intended – with the revelation of a robust correlation between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. With a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and a p-value less than 0.01, this connection proved to be more than just a breath of fresh air in the world of research; it's a statistical match made in heaven, or should we say in the hazy skies of Muskegon!
Fig. 1 showcases a scatterplot that visually encapsulates the compelling relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. It's as if the data points are doing the wave – the statistical wave, that is – as they align themselves in synchrony, akin to the harmonious choreography of a viral video. If only statistical analysis were as captivating as a meme; alas, we'll have to settle for the visual spectacle of this scatterplot!
"Dad joke alert! Why do we never tell secrets on a farm? Because the potatoes have eyes and the corn has ears!" Just like that wholesomely corny joke, our findings invite a chuckle while delivering an insightful punchline. We've discovered that even in the realm of data analysis, there's room for a good laugh – or at least an eye roll!
This statistical revelation not only raises eyebrows but also beckons us to explore the whimsical side of statistical significance. The robust correlation coefficient highlights the intriguing interplay between environmental factors and cultural phenomena, perhaps serving as a metaphorical breath of fresh air in the often stifling corridors of academic research. Who would've thought that air pollution and internet memes could share such an unexpected bond? It's like discovering a treasure trove of dad jokes in a statistical manual – an amusing surprise that reminds us of the delightful unpredictability inherent in the pursuit of knowledge.
In essence, this study contributes a lighthearted yet empirically sound perspective to the discourse on environmental impact and cultural trends. It's a reminder that even the most improbable connections can yield valuable insights, and that statistical analysis can be as playful as a meme in the right context.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our study has harnessed the power of data analytics to illuminate a whimsical yet robust correlation between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. It's as if the environmental elements conspired to create a meme-orable connection with internet culture, much like a chemistry experiment gone delightfully awry. The correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and a p-value less than 0.01 speak volumes, making us feel like we've stumbled upon the statistical equivalent of a hidden gem – or in this case, a hidden meme!

As we wrap up this research, it's like turning the last page of a statistical thriller and finding a punchline waiting for us. "What do you call a fake noodle? An impasta!" Just as this dad joke leaves us with a grin, our findings infuse a sense of levity into the often serious conversation about air pollution and digital trends. It's a reminder that even in the realm of rigorous analysis, there's room for a good chuckle.

With the unveiling of this peculiar connection, it's clear that the air in Muskegon carries not just pollutants, but also the faint whispers of internet whimsy. And like a good dad joke, this correlation may be unexpected, but it certainly delivers an unforgettable punchline. Our findings nudge us to embrace the delightful unpredictability that research often brings, reminding us that knowledge, like a good joke, can surprise us in the most unexpected ways.

In light of these resoundingly amusing yet empirically solid results, it's evident that the fusion of science and playful curiosity has propelled us to uncharted territories, much like a comical rocket ship defying the gravity of traditional research norms. As we wrap up, we assert that no further research is needed on this correlation; like a well-timed punchline, some connections are best appreciated for the delightful mysteries they hold.


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 Smoggy Side of Social Media: Air Pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the Phenomenon of the 'McKayla Maroney' Meme. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

Journal of Environmental Psychology and Internet Culture


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 Smoggy Side of Social Media: Air Pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the Phenomenon of the 'McKayla Maroney' Meme. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for Quirky Environmental Studies


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled The Smoggy Side of Social Media: Air Pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the Phenomenon of the 'McKayla Maroney' Meme with an abstract of This study delves into the unlikely connection between air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan and the surge in popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme. By harnessing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends, we sought to unravel this curious relationship. Our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.8867933 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning 2006 to 2021, demonstrating a robust statistical link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena.
Air pollution, a longstanding environmental concern, has often been the subject of rigorous scientific investigation. However, our study introduces a whimsical twist to the narrative by exploring its unexpected interplay with the cultural phenomenon of internet memes. Harnessing the power of data analytics, we charted the ebbs and flows of air pollution levels and the corresponding peaks and troughs of 'McKayla Maroney' meme searches. The findings illuminated a striking synchronized pattern, prompting us to ponder the deeper implications and societal ramifications of this unusual correlation.
In the spirit of blending light-heartedness with academia, our research team couldn't resist a dad joke: "Why did the statistician bring a ladder to the bar? Because they heard the drinks were on the house! Speaking of houses, our findings reinforce the notion that even digital trends can be influenced by earthly factors, like the quality of the air we breathe."
In essence, this study not only sheds light on an unlikely nexus between air pollution and internet culture, but also underscores the multidimensional nature of research in the digital age. With a nod to humor and scientific rigor, we hope to spark further curiosity and exploration of unexpected connections in our complex world.

ChatGPT:

Muskegon, Michigan, air pollution, McKayla Maroney, meme, Environmental Protection Agency, Google Trends, data analytics, correlation coefficient, statistical link, internet culture, digital trends, unexpected connections

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



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Data details

Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan
Detailed data title: Percentage of days with air quality at 'unhealthy for sensitive groups' or worse in Muskegon, MI
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
See what else correlates with Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan

Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme
Detailed data title: Relative volume of Google searches for 'McKayla Maroney meme' (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 'McKayla Maroney' meme

Correlation r = 0.8867933 (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 = 0.7864024 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 78.6% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan) over the 16 years from 2006 through 2021.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 4.7E-6. 0.0000047136942745176780000000
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 0.89 in 0.00047% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 212,148 random variables You don't actually need 212 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 15 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 15 because we have two variables measured over a period of 16 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.

[ 0.7, 0.96 ] 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.
2006200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021
Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan (Bad air quality days)5.82966.179781.404491.68353.292183.319514.46282.857143.278693.409093.932582.040822.50.3816792.419353.01887
Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme (Relative popularity)0.1250.4285710.14285700011.81.142860.6666670210001.16667




Why this works

  1. 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.
  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([5.8296,6.17978,1.40449,1.6835,3.29218,3.3195,14.4628,2.85714,3.27869,3.40909,3.93258,2.04082,2.5,0.381679,2.41935,3.01887,])
array_2 = np.array([0.125,0.428571,0.142857,0,0,0,11.8,1.14286,0.666667,0,2,1,0,0,0,1.16667,])
array_1_name = "Air pollution in Muskegon, Michigan"
array_2_name = "Popularity of the 'McKayla Maroney' meme"

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

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



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

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

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Correlation ID: 5647 · Black Variable ID: 20936 · Red Variable ID: 25112
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