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Spurious correlation #5,713 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and the second variable is Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'.  The chart goes from 2004 to 2023, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

The cleaner air in Springfield led to a rise in productivity, prompting people to work extra hard and earn those extra vacation days. This, in turn, meant more folks could afford to take the plunge and book flights to Antarctica. It's like they say, when the air quality goes up, so does the penguin popularity! The connection is crystal clear - fresher air in Springfield is taking flight to the icy continent!

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Prompt: Style: a Polaroid photo Description: Generate an image of a bustling street in Springfield, Massachusetts, teeming with vitality and activity. The scene should exude a sense of freshness and cleanliness in the air. People are engaging in work and daily routines with energy and purpose. In the background, multiple open computer screens display Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. The increased productivity from the clean air is illustrated by the focused individuals, while the interest in flights to Antarctica represents the newfound ability to explore and vacation due to the enhanced air quality. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.
This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Given these, which of the following image style descriptions seems most appropriate? Pick the one that seems to be related to one of the variables at hand. Please respond with only one of the following potential descriptions: Whimsical illustration Whimsical illustration Glitch art a funny image you would see on reddit a Polaroid photo
ChatGPT: a Polaroid photo

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica', in the following situation: The cleaner air in Springfield led to a rise in productivity, prompting people to work extra hard and earn those extra vacation days. This, in turn, meant more folks could afford to take the plunge and book flights to Antarctica. It's like they say, when the air quality goes up, so does the penguin popularity! The connection is crystal clear - fresher air in Springfield is taking flight to the icy continent!. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: Imagine a bustling street in Springfield, Massachusetts, where the air quality is noticeably fresh and clean. People are energetically working and going about their day, driven by the positive air around them. In the background, you can see multiple open tabs on computer screens showing Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. In this scene, the increased productivity from the clean air is symbolized by the focus on work, while the flights to Antarctica represent the newfound ability to take vacations and explore new destinations, all linked by the shared theme of rising popularity due to the improved air quality.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You write and improve image generation prompts for DALLE-3. You maintain the same subjects, but enhance the visuals.
User prompt: Please respond with an image generation prompt that would be likely to create an interesting visual using DALLE-3, using the following style: [ a Polaroid photo ] and depicting this scene: Imagine a bustling street in Springfield, Massachusetts, where the air quality is noticeably fresh and clean. People are energetically working and going about their day, driven by the positive air around them. In the background, you can see multiple open tabs on computer screens showing Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. In this scene, the increased productivity from the clean air is symbolized by the focus on work, while the flights to Antarctica represent the newfound ability to take vacations and explore new destinations, all linked by the shared theme of rising popularity due to the improved air quality. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Prompt: Style: a Polaroid photo Description: Generate an image of a bustling street in Springfield, Massachusetts, teeming with vitality and activity. The scene should exude a sense of freshness and cleanliness in the air. People are engaging in work and daily routines with energy and purpose. In the background, multiple open computer screens display Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. The increased productivity from the clean air is illustrated by the focused individuals, while the interest in flights to Antarctica represents the newfound ability to explore and vacation due to the enhanced air quality.

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

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

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how an increase in Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts caused flights to Antarctica (Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica') to increase. Include one good pun.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Plane Crazy: The Icy Connection Between Air Quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google Searches for 'Flights to Antarctica'

The Journal of Strange Airborne Phenomena

Jan 2024

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




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

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Make the title a clever pun.

Your research team used data from Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and p < 0.01 for 2004 to 2023.

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

[[TITLE]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit

[[ABSTRACT]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit



ChatGPT:
[[TITLE]]
"Plane Crazy: The Icy Connection Between Air Quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google Searches for 'Flights to Antarctica'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research paper presents an analysis of the relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Using data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends spanning from 2004 to 2023, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation. We observed a correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena. The findings suggest that as air quality in Springfield deteriorates, there is an increased interest in seeking flights to the pristine and remote continent of Antarctica. This unexpected connection raises intriguing questions about the psychological impact of air pollution and the allure of remote destinations. The study offers a lighthearted perspective on the potential effects of environmental factors on travel preferences and provides a whimsical take on air quality research.


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

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Plane Crazy: The Icy Connection Between Air Quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google Searches for 'Flights to Antarctica'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research paper presents an analysis of the relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Using data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends spanning from 2004 to 2023, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation. We observed a correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena. The findings suggest that as air quality in Springfield deteriorates, there is an increased interest in seeking flights to the pristine and remote continent of Antarctica. This unexpected connection raises intriguing questions about the psychological impact of air pollution and the allure of remote destinations. The study offers a lighthearted perspective on the potential effects of environmental factors on travel preferences and provides a whimsical take on air quality research.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
INTRODUCTION

The interplay between environmental factors and human behavior has long been a topic of interest in research. Air quality, a ubiquitous aspect of daily life, has been associated with various health and societal outcomes. However, in a rather unexpected twist, our study delves into the curious relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts, and the peculiar inclination of individuals to search for 'flights to Antarctica' on Google. While it may seem as whimsical as a penguin waddling through a snowstorm, our research uncovers a surprising connection between these seemingly unrelated phenomena.

The city of Springfield, Massachusetts, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, also grapples with challenges related to air quality. Meanwhile, Antarctica stands as a remote, icy continent that seems as far removed from the issues of urban air pollution as a polar bear is from a palm tree. Nevertheless, through the lens of data analysis, we have unearthed a correlation that may elicit a raised eyebrow or even a playful quip or two.

The correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01 derived from our dataset provide robust evidence of the link between deteriorating air quality in Springfield and the surge in Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Such statistical significance reinforces the veracity of the association, prompting us to ponder the underlying mechanisms at play.

This study aims to contribute a lighthearted and whimsical perspective to the typically serious milieu of air quality research. At the intersection of environmental science and human behavior, this unlikely correlation adds a touch of levity to the dialogue surrounding the impact of air pollution on the human psyche. As we embark on this scholarly journey, let us brace ourselves for a blend of empirical rigor and a dash of unexpected delight.


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

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Make lots of 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 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]]
"Plane Crazy: The Icy Connection Between Air Quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google Searches for 'Flights to Antarctica'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research paper presents an analysis of the relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Using data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends spanning from 2004 to 2023, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation. We observed a correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena. The findings suggest that as air quality in Springfield deteriorates, there is an increased interest in seeking flights to the pristine and remote continent of Antarctica. This unexpected connection raises intriguing questions about the psychological impact of air pollution and the allure of remote destinations. The study offers a lighthearted perspective on the potential effects of environmental factors on travel preferences and provides a whimsical take on air quality research.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The interplay between environmental factors and human behavior has long been a topic of interest in research. Air quality, a ubiquitous aspect of daily life, has been associated with various health and societal outcomes. However, in a rather unexpected twist, our study delves into the curious relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts, and the peculiar inclination of individuals to search for 'flights to Antarctica' on Google. While it may seem as whimsical as a penguin waddling through a snowstorm, our research uncovers a surprising connection between these seemingly unrelated phenomena.
The city of Springfield, Massachusetts, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, also grapples with challenges related to air quality. Meanwhile, Antarctica stands as a remote, icy continent that seems as far removed from the issues of urban air pollution as a polar bear is from a palm tree. Nevertheless, through the lens of data analysis, we have unearthed a correlation that may elicit a raised eyebrow or even a playful quip or two.
The correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01 derived from our dataset provide robust evidence of the link between deteriorating air quality in Springfield and the surge in Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Such statistical significance reinforces the veracity of the association, prompting us to ponder the underlying mechanisms at play.
This study aims to contribute a lighthearted and whimsical perspective to the typically serious milieu of air quality research. At the intersection of environmental science and human behavior, this unlikely correlation adds a touch of levity to the dialogue surrounding the impact of air pollution on the human psyche. As we embark on this scholarly journey, let us brace ourselves for a blend of empirical rigor and a dash of unexpected delight.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

Smith and Doe (2010) examine the impact of air quality on human behavior, specifically focusing on psychological responses to environmental stimuli. Their study delves into the physiological and cognitive effects of air pollution, shedding light on the potential influence of environmental factors on decision-making processes. Furthermore, Jones et al. (2015) explore the correlation between online search behavior and travel preferences, highlighting the role of digital footprint analysis in understanding travel motivations. These scholarly works lay the groundwork for our investigation into the connection between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts, and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'.

Turning to non-fiction literature, "The Air We Breathe: A Comprehensive Analysis of Atmospheric Quality" by Environmental Research Institute delves into the nuances of air quality management and its implications for public health. Additionally, "Antarctica: A Journey to the Southernmost Continent" by Polar Expedition Society offers a comprehensive account of the allure of Antarctica as a destination, providing insights into the fascination with this remote landmass.

In the realm of fiction, "Chilling Tales: Frozen Landscapes and Otherworldly Adventures" by Fictional Antarctica Society takes readers on a whimsical journey through the icy landscapes of Antarctica. Meanwhile, "The Cloud of Suspicion" by Mystery Novelist explores the enigmatic quest for adventure and the allure of distant locales, embodying the spirit of curiosity and wanderlust that may underpin searches for 'flights to Antarctica'.

Beyond traditional academic sources, our research team embarked on an unconventional journey to unravel the enigma of the Springfield-Antarctica connection. In a lighthearted pursuit of knowledge, we perused grocery lists, delved into the intricacies of crossword puzzles, and even analyzed the curious patterns of CVS receipts. While these unconventional sources may elicit a chuckle, they provided a lighthearted and offbeat approach to supplementing our research findings.

With this diverse array of literature and unconventional sources at our disposal, we embark upon a journey through the whimsical and unexpected correlation between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts, and the captivating allure of 'flights to Antarctica' in online searches.


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

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends . You used data from 2004 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]]
"Plane Crazy: The Icy Connection Between Air Quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google Searches for 'Flights to Antarctica'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research paper presents an analysis of the relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Using data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends spanning from 2004 to 2023, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation. We observed a correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena. The findings suggest that as air quality in Springfield deteriorates, there is an increased interest in seeking flights to the pristine and remote continent of Antarctica. This unexpected connection raises intriguing questions about the psychological impact of air pollution and the allure of remote destinations. The study offers a lighthearted perspective on the potential effects of environmental factors on travel preferences and provides a whimsical take on air quality research.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The interplay between environmental factors and human behavior has long been a topic of interest in research. Air quality, a ubiquitous aspect of daily life, has been associated with various health and societal outcomes. However, in a rather unexpected twist, our study delves into the curious relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts, and the peculiar inclination of individuals to search for 'flights to Antarctica' on Google. While it may seem as whimsical as a penguin waddling through a snowstorm, our research uncovers a surprising connection between these seemingly unrelated phenomena.
The city of Springfield, Massachusetts, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, also grapples with challenges related to air quality. Meanwhile, Antarctica stands as a remote, icy continent that seems as far removed from the issues of urban air pollution as a polar bear is from a palm tree. Nevertheless, through the lens of data analysis, we have unearthed a correlation that may elicit a raised eyebrow or even a playful quip or two.
The correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01 derived from our dataset provide robust evidence of the link between deteriorating air quality in Springfield and the surge in Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Such statistical significance reinforces the veracity of the association, prompting us to ponder the underlying mechanisms at play.
This study aims to contribute a lighthearted and whimsical perspective to the typically serious milieu of air quality research. At the intersection of environmental science and human behavior, this unlikely correlation adds a touch of levity to the dialogue surrounding the impact of air pollution on the human psyche. As we embark on this scholarly journey, let us brace ourselves for a blend of empirical rigor and a dash of unexpected delight.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

Data Collection:
The data for this study was primarily sourced from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), because let's face it, who else knows more about air quality than the EPA? The EPA's extensive databases provided us with a wealth of information on air quality measurements in Springfield, Massachusetts from 2004 to 2023. We also utilized Google Trends, which, despite the name, had nothing to do with the latest fashion fads or TikTok challenges. Instead, we turned to Google Trends to track the frequency of searches for 'flights to Antarctica', giving us insight into the collective wanderlust of internet users.

Inclusion Criteria:
To ensure the robustness of our analysis, we included air quality data from all seasons, because air quality doesn't take a vacation in winter. We also made sure to capture search trend data for 'flights to Antarctica' irrespective of whether it was triggered by the dreamers, the daredevils, or the disoriented individuals searching for warmer climates.

Correlation Analysis:
The crux of our methodology involved the application of advanced statistical techniques to unearth the entwined relationship between air quality in Springfield and the propensity for virtual escapades to Antarctica. We computed Pearson correlation coefficients with a precision that can rival the accuracy of a GPS guiding a plane to the South Pole. Our p-value calculations were as meticulous as an airline crew inspecting every inch of their aircraft before takeoff, ensuring that we didn't get carried away by chance findings.

Time Series Analysis:
To truly capture the ebb and flow of this intriguing connection, we undertook a time series analysis that would make even the most ardent clock enthusiast envious. This allowed us to unravel any temporal patterns in the association between air quality fluctuations and the surge in searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Our data crunching yielded insights into how changes in air quality corresponded with the waxing and waning interest in embarking on an Antarctic adventure.

Regression Modeling:
We further delved into the depths of regression modeling to untangle the web of factors influencing the search behavior for Antarctic journeys. By adjusting for potential confounders, we teased out the specific impact of air quality on the fascination with remote polar excursions, essentially separating the signal from the noise in this frosty conundrum.

Sensitivity Analysis:
Not content with mere surface-level scrutiny, we subjected our findings to a sensitivity analysis to assess the robustness of our results. This involved tweaking various parameters and testing the stability of the relationship between air quality and the yearning for Antarctic expeditions, ensuring that our findings didn't melt away under scrutiny.

Overall, our methodology embraced the complexities of data analysis with a healthy dose of mirth and diligence, culminating in an examination of a relationship that proves as intriguing as a penguin's waddle on the icy plains.


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

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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

For the time period 2004 to 2023, you found a correlation 0.8931657, r-squared of 0.7977450, 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]]
"Plane Crazy: The Icy Connection Between Air Quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google Searches for 'Flights to Antarctica'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research paper presents an analysis of the relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Using data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends spanning from 2004 to 2023, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation. We observed a correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena. The findings suggest that as air quality in Springfield deteriorates, there is an increased interest in seeking flights to the pristine and remote continent of Antarctica. This unexpected connection raises intriguing questions about the psychological impact of air pollution and the allure of remote destinations. The study offers a lighthearted perspective on the potential effects of environmental factors on travel preferences and provides a whimsical take on air quality research.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
INTRODUCTION
The interplay between environmental factors and human behavior has long been a topic of interest in research. Air quality, a ubiquitous aspect of daily life, has been associated with various health and societal outcomes. However, in a rather unexpected twist, our study delves into the curious relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts, and the peculiar inclination of individuals to search for 'flights to Antarctica' on Google. While it may seem as whimsical as a penguin waddling through a snowstorm, our research uncovers a surprising connection between these seemingly unrelated phenomena.
The city of Springfield, Massachusetts, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, also grapples with challenges related to air quality. Meanwhile, Antarctica stands as a remote, icy continent that seems as far removed from the issues of urban air pollution as a polar bear is from a palm tree. Nevertheless, through the lens of data analysis, we have unearthed a correlation that may elicit a raised eyebrow or even a playful quip or two.
The correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01 derived from our dataset provide robust evidence of the link between deteriorating air quality in Springfield and the surge in Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Such statistical significance reinforces the veracity of the association, prompting us to ponder the underlying mechanisms at play.
This study aims to contribute a lighthearted and whimsical perspective to the typically serious milieu of air quality research. At the intersection of environmental science and human behavior, this unlikely correlation adds a touch of levity to the dialogue surrounding the impact of air pollution on the human psyche. As we embark on this scholarly journey, let us brace ourselves for a blend of empirical rigor and a dash of unexpected delight.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The analysis of the relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica' revealed a remarkable correlation. Over the period from 2004 to 2023, the correlation coefficient was calculated to be 0.8931657, with an r-squared value of 0.7977450, indicating that approximately 79.77% of the variance in the search interest for 'flights to Antarctica' could be explained by the fluctuations in air quality in Springfield. The p-value of less than 0.01 further underscores the statistical significance of this connection, lending credence to the robustness of our findings.

The scatterplot (Fig. 1) illustrates the strong positive correlation, resembling a flight path from Springfield to Antarctica on a particularly clear day. The data points align with a near-perfect line, as if the concept of air pollution itself were so compelling that it chartered a direct flight to the ice-covered southernmost continent.

The findings suggest that as the air quality in Springfield deteriorates, there is a discernible increase in the fervor with which individuals seek escapism through the click of a 'book now' button for a flight to the icy expanse of Antarctica. This correlation prompts contemplation of the idiosyncrasies of human behavior in response to environmental cues, evoking an image of individuals donning parkas and packing suitcases at the first hint of a hazy day in Springfield.

As we grapple with the implications of these results, one cannot help but wonder if the residents of Springfield, upon witnessing a decline in air quality, found themselves daydreaming of the pure, crisp Antarctic air, or if some sought shelter in the penguin-populated landscapes to escape the emissions that had clouded their skies.

The unexpected link between air quality in a bustling city and dreams of remote Antarctic exploration opens a delightful avenue for the exploration of the whimsical side of environmental influence on human cognition and behavior. This correlation, with its statistical vigor and offbeat undertones, encourages researchers to approach environmental impact from a lighthearted perspective, acknowledging that even in the realm of data analysis, there exists room for the unexpected and the fanciful.


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

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Make lots of 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]]
"Plane Crazy: The Icy Connection Between Air Quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google Searches for 'Flights to Antarctica'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research paper presents an analysis of the relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Using data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends spanning from 2004 to 2023, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation. We observed a correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena. The findings suggest that as air quality in Springfield deteriorates, there is an increased interest in seeking flights to the pristine and remote continent of Antarctica. This unexpected connection raises intriguing questions about the psychological impact of air pollution and the allure of remote destinations. The study offers a lighthearted perspective on the potential effects of environmental factors on travel preferences and provides a whimsical take on air quality research.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
Smith and Doe (2010) examine the impact of air quality on human behavior, specifically focusing on psychological responses to environmental stimuli. Their study delves into the physiological and cognitive effects of air pollution, shedding light on the potential influence of environmental factors on decision-making processes. Furthermore, Jones et al. (2015) explore the correlation between online search behavior and travel preferences, highlighting the role of digital footprint analysis in understanding travel motivations. These scholarly works lay the groundwork for our investigation into the connection between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts, and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'.
Turning to non-fiction literature, "The Air We Breathe: A Comprehensive Analysis of Atmospheric Quality" by Environmental Research Institute delves into the nuances of air quality management and its implications for public health. Additionally, "Antarctica: A Journey to the Southernmost Continent" by Polar Expedition Society offers a comprehensive account of the allure of Antarctica as a destination, providing insights into the fascination with this remote landmass.
In the realm of fiction, "Chilling Tales: Frozen Landscapes and Otherworldly Adventures" by Fictional Antarctica Society takes readers on a whimsical journey through the icy landscapes of Antarctica. Meanwhile, "The Cloud of Suspicion" by Mystery Novelist explores the enigmatic quest for adventure and the allure of distant locales, embodying the spirit of curiosity and wanderlust that may underpin searches for 'flights to Antarctica'.
Beyond traditional academic sources, our research team embarked on an unconventional journey to unravel the enigma of the Springfield-Antarctica connection. In a lighthearted pursuit of knowledge, we perused grocery lists, delved into the intricacies of crossword puzzles, and even analyzed the curious patterns of CVS receipts. While these unconventional sources may elicit a chuckle, they provided a lighthearted and offbeat approach to supplementing our research findings.
With this diverse array of literature and unconventional sources at our disposal, we embark upon a journey through the whimsical and unexpected correlation between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts, and the captivating allure of 'flights to Antarctica' in online searches.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of the relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica' revealed a remarkable correlation. Over the period from 2004 to 2023, the correlation coefficient was calculated to be 0.8931657, with an r-squared value of 0.7977450, indicating that approximately 79.77% of the variance in the search interest for 'flights to Antarctica' could be explained by the fluctuations in air quality in Springfield. The p-value of less than 0.01 further underscores the statistical significance of this connection, lending credence to the robustness of our findings.
The scatterplot (Fig. 1) illustrates the strong positive correlation, resembling a flight path from Springfield to Antarctica on a particularly clear day. The data points align with a near-perfect line, as if the concept of air pollution itself were so compelling that it chartered a direct flight to the ice-covered southernmost continent.
The findings suggest that as the air quality in Springfield deteriorates, there is a discernible increase in the fervor with which individuals seek escapism through the click of a 'book now' button for a flight to the icy expanse of Antarctica. This correlation prompts contemplation of the idiosyncrasies of human behavior in response to environmental cues, evoking an image of individuals donning parkas and packing suitcases at the first hint of a hazy day in Springfield.
As we grapple with the implications of these results, one cannot help but wonder if the residents of Springfield, upon witnessing a decline in air quality, found themselves daydreaming of the pure, crisp Antarctic air, or if some sought shelter in the penguin-populated landscapes to escape the emissions that had clouded their skies.
The unexpected link between air quality in a bustling city and dreams of remote Antarctic exploration opens a delightful avenue for the exploration of the whimsical side of environmental influence on human cognition and behavior. This correlation, with its statistical vigor and offbeat undertones, encourages researchers to approach environmental impact from a lighthearted perspective, acknowledging that even in the realm of data analysis, there exists room for the unexpected and the fanciful.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The correlation between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica' has given rise to a new dimension in the study of environmental influence on human behavior. The robust correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and the statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 provide compelling evidence to support the link between these seemingly unrelated phenomena.

Building on the findings of Smith and Doe (2010) regarding the psychological responses to environmental stimuli, our results offer empirical validation for the notion that air quality can have a tangible impact on individuals' decision-making processes. It appears that as the air quality in Springfield deteriorates, the allure of escaping to Antarctica becomes increasingly irresistible, echoing the findings of Jones et al. (2015) on the correlation between online search behavior and travel preferences. The whimsical books "Chilling Tales" and "The Cloud of Suspicion" have inadvertently become the unlikely vanguards of empirical support for our findings, as the search for adventure and the allure of distant locales manifest in the digital realm via 'flights to Antarctica' queries.

The scatterplot evocatively depicts the trajectory of this curious relationship, mirroring the flight path from Springfield to Antarctica, almost as if air pollution itself were navigating an icy escape route. This visualization amplifies the lighthearted nature of the association, inviting contemplation of individuals donning parkas and plotting their polar expeditions in response to a smoggy day in Springfield.

The unexpected link between air quality and dreams of remote Antarctic exploration offers a delightful avenue for the exploration of the whimsical side of environmental influence on human cognition and behavior. As we navigate the terrain of environmental impact, this correlation encourages researchers to embrace a bit of imaginative speculation, recognizing that even in the realm of data analysis, there exists room for the unexpected and the fanciful.

In conclusion, our study underscores the truly eclectic nature of the factors that shape human behavior. The environmental influence on individuals' wanderlust and the interaction between digital footprints and atmospheric quality present a charmingly offbeat angle for future research in the field of air quality and human decision-making. The unexpectedly icy allure of 'flights to Antarctica' prompts us to consider the intriguing complexities underlying the human response to environmental cues, reminding us that even in the world of statistical analysis, there is always room for a touch of whimsy.


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

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Make lots of 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]]
"Plane Crazy: The Icy Connection Between Air Quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google Searches for 'Flights to Antarctica'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research paper presents an analysis of the relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Using data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends spanning from 2004 to 2023, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation. We observed a correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena. The findings suggest that as air quality in Springfield deteriorates, there is an increased interest in seeking flights to the pristine and remote continent of Antarctica. This unexpected connection raises intriguing questions about the psychological impact of air pollution and the allure of remote destinations. The study offers a lighthearted perspective on the potential effects of environmental factors on travel preferences and provides a whimsical take on air quality research.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The interplay between environmental factors and human behavior has long been a topic of interest in research. Air quality, a ubiquitous aspect of daily life, has been associated with various health and societal outcomes. However, in a rather unexpected twist, our study delves into the curious relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts, and the peculiar inclination of individuals to search for 'flights to Antarctica' on Google. While it may seem as whimsical as a penguin waddling through a snowstorm, our research uncovers a surprising connection between these seemingly unrelated phenomena.
The city of Springfield, Massachusetts, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, also grapples with challenges related to air quality. Meanwhile, Antarctica stands as a remote, icy continent that seems as far removed from the issues of urban air pollution as a polar bear is from a palm tree. Nevertheless, through the lens of data analysis, we have unearthed a correlation that may elicit a raised eyebrow or even a playful quip or two.
The correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01 derived from our dataset provide robust evidence of the link between deteriorating air quality in Springfield and the surge in Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Such statistical significance reinforces the veracity of the association, prompting us to ponder the underlying mechanisms at play.
This study aims to contribute a lighthearted and whimsical perspective to the typically serious milieu of air quality research. At the intersection of environmental science and human behavior, this unlikely correlation adds a touch of levity to the dialogue surrounding the impact of air pollution on the human psyche. As we embark on this scholarly journey, let us brace ourselves for a blend of empirical rigor and a dash of unexpected delight.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of the relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica' revealed a remarkable correlation. Over the period from 2004 to 2023, the correlation coefficient was calculated to be 0.8931657, with an r-squared value of 0.7977450, indicating that approximately 79.77% of the variance in the search interest for 'flights to Antarctica' could be explained by the fluctuations in air quality in Springfield. The p-value of less than 0.01 further underscores the statistical significance of this connection, lending credence to the robustness of our findings.
The scatterplot (Fig. 1) illustrates the strong positive correlation, resembling a flight path from Springfield to Antarctica on a particularly clear day. The data points align with a near-perfect line, as if the concept of air pollution itself were so compelling that it chartered a direct flight to the ice-covered southernmost continent.
The findings suggest that as the air quality in Springfield deteriorates, there is a discernible increase in the fervor with which individuals seek escapism through the click of a 'book now' button for a flight to the icy expanse of Antarctica. This correlation prompts contemplation of the idiosyncrasies of human behavior in response to environmental cues, evoking an image of individuals donning parkas and packing suitcases at the first hint of a hazy day in Springfield.
As we grapple with the implications of these results, one cannot help but wonder if the residents of Springfield, upon witnessing a decline in air quality, found themselves daydreaming of the pure, crisp Antarctic air, or if some sought shelter in the penguin-populated landscapes to escape the emissions that had clouded their skies.
The unexpected link between air quality in a bustling city and dreams of remote Antarctic exploration opens a delightful avenue for the exploration of the whimsical side of environmental influence on human cognition and behavior. This correlation, with its statistical vigor and offbeat undertones, encourages researchers to approach environmental impact from a lighthearted perspective, acknowledging that even in the realm of data analysis, there exists room for the unexpected and the fanciful.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, the findings of this study illuminate a striking correlation between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and the fervent yearning for Antarctic adventures. The statistically significant link, reminiscent of a penguin waddling through the maze of statistical analysis, underscores the unexpected relationship between urban air pollution and dreams of a remote, icy getaway.

The implications of this research extend beyond the numerical realm, prompting contemplation of the human psyche in the face of environmental challenges. As Springfield's air quality wavered, it seems that the allure of the pristine Antarctic landscape beckoned like a siren's call, driving individuals to consider flights to this distant land. One can almost picture the citizens of Springfield gazing wistfully at the polluted skyline, their minds drifting to the barren, pollution-free expanses of Antarctica, much like a flight taking off from a smog-clad runway toward the crystal-clear skies of the Southern Hemisphere.

While the causality behind this correlation remains shrouded in a frosty, enigmatic mist, one cannot help but marvel at the whimsical nature of human response to environmental stimuli. It may be as if the residents of Springfield, faced with the prospect of hazy skies and polluted air, turned to Google in search of solace in the form of frigid Antarctic temperatures and penguin-filled panoramas, as if to say, “Adieu, polluted air! Bonjour, clean ice-cold breeze!”

This study sheds light on the quirkier aspects of human behavior, reminding us that even in the realm of air quality research, there lies a trove of surprises waiting to be uncovered. Although one may initially raise an eyebrow at the unorthodox nature of our investigation, the robustness of the statistical findings cements the genuineness of this icy connection.

In contemplating the collective imagination of Springfield residents yearning for a sojourn southward, one cannot help but chuckle at the unexpected whimsy of it all. The smog-choked urban landscape of Springfield appears to have ignited in its denizens an unquenchable thirst for the pure, unadulterated air of the South Pole, nudging them to surreptitiously seek refuge in the land drenched in the ethereal glow of the aurora australis.

In light of these compelling findings, we assert with confidence that further research in this peculiar domain may be as superfluous as a snowplow in the Sahara. The spellbinding correlation between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and the search for 'flights to Antarctica' has been brought to light, leaving the academic community with a potent blend of empirical rigor and serendipitous whimsy.


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 Plane Crazy: The Icy Connection Between Air Quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google Searches for 'Flights to Antarctica'. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Strange Airborne Phenomena


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 Plane Crazy: The Icy Connection Between Air Quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google Searches for 'Flights to Antarctica'. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

Society for the Study of Unlikely Correlations


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 Plane Crazy: The Icy Connection Between Air Quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google Searches for 'Flights to Antarctica' with an abstract of This research paper presents an analysis of the relationship between air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts and Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'. Using data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends spanning from 2004 to 2023, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation. We observed a correlation coefficient of 0.8931657 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant link between the two seemingly disparate phenomena. The findings suggest that as air quality in Springfield deteriorates, there is an increased interest in seeking flights to the pristine and remote continent of Antarctica. This unexpected connection raises intriguing questions about the psychological impact of air pollution and the allure of remote destinations. The study offers a lighthearted perspective on the potential effects of environmental factors on travel preferences and provides a whimsical take on air quality research.

ChatGPT:

air quality, Springfield Massachusetts, Google searches, flights to Antarctica, correlation analysis, EPA data, Google Trends, psychological impact, air pollution, remote destinations, travel preferences, environmental factors

*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 quality in Springfield, Massachusetts
Detailed data title: Percentage of days with good air quality in Springfield, MA
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
See what else correlates with Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts

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

See what else correlates with Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'

Correlation r = 0.8931657 (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 = 0.7977450 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 79.8% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica') is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts) over the 20 years from 2004 through 2023.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 1.2E-7. 0.0000001161661272622035200000
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 1.2E-5% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 8,608,361 random variables You don't actually need 8 million 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 19 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 19 because we have two variables measured over a period of 20 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.

[ 0.75, 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.
20042005200620072008200920102011201220132014201520162017201820192020202120222023
Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts (Good air quality)51.092950.41160.27452.876758.469960.821964.931563.287763.661269.58967.671275.342580.601181.917875.890483.791285.519178.356280.27478.453
Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica' (Rel. search volume)11.16677.8333319.916713.083316.083313.7517.416715.583318.2518.666717.833322.2525.166731.535.416734.2528.416721.333329.416728.7




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.
  4. Y-axis doesn't start at zero: I truncated the Y-axes of the graph above. I also used a line graph, which makes the visual connection stand out more than it deserves. Nothing against line graphs. They are great at telling a story when you have linear data! But visually it is deceptive because the only data is at the points on the graph, not the lines on the graph. In between each point, the data could have been doing anything. Like going for a random walk by itself!
    Mathematically what I showed is true, but it is intentionally misleading. Below is the same chart but with both Y-axes starting at zero.




Try it yourself

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([51.0929,50.411,60.274,52.8767,58.4699,60.8219,64.9315,63.2877,63.6612,69.589,67.6712,75.3425,80.6011,81.9178,75.8904,83.7912,85.5191,78.3562,80.274,78.453,])
array_2 = np.array([11.1667,7.83333,19.9167,13.0833,16.0833,13.75,17.4167,15.5833,18.25,18.6667,17.8333,22.25,25.1667,31.5,35.4167,34.25,28.4167,21.3333,29.4167,28.7,])
array_1_name = "Air quality in Springfield, Massachusetts"
array_2_name = "Google searches for 'flights to Antarctica'"

# 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: 5713 · Black Variable ID: 21297 · Red Variable ID: 1373
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