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Spurious correlation #5,949 · 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 San Diego, California and the second variable is Popularity of the first name Kirk.  The chart goes from 1980 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

As the air cleared, people were no longer feeling the urge to "Kirk" off and stay indoors! With pollution levels down, parents were no longer "Kirk-umspect" about naming their children. The correlation is elementary, my dear Watson!

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Create an image of a vibrant park scene in San Diego, capturing the clear blue sky with families strolling and children playing. Among them, depict a couple engaged in a discussion about baby names, specifically considering the name "Kirk". The atmosphere should emanate a sense of joy and relief as the decreased pollution levels allow people to relish the fresh air and consider baby names freely and without hesitation. The image should convey a realistic and soothing ambiance, celebrating the newfound clarity and freedom in the environment. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.
This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: Air pollution in San Diego, California and Popularity of the first name Kirk. 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: Cute 2D animation a funny image macro Realistic Photorealism Cutsy art illustration
ChatGPT: Realistic

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both Air pollution in San Diego, California and Popularity of the first name Kirk, in the following situation: As the air cleared, people were no longer feeling the urge to "Kirk" off and stay indoors! With pollution levels down, parents were no longer "Kirk-umspect" about naming their children. The correlation is elementary, my dear Watson!. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: The clear blue sky of San Diego shows vibrant colors, with families strolling in the park and children playing outside. A couple is discussing baby names, and the name "Kirk" is being considered. There's a sense of joy and relief in the air as the pollution levels have decreased, allowing people to enjoy the fresh air and consider naming their children without hesitation.

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: [ Realistic ] and depicting this scene: The clear blue sky of San Diego shows vibrant colors, with families strolling in the park and children playing outside. A couple is discussing baby names, and the name "Kirk" is being considered. There's a sense of joy and relief in the air as the pollution levels have decreased, allowing people to enjoy the fresh air and consider naming their children without hesitation. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Create an image of a vibrant park scene in San Diego, capturing the clear blue sky with families strolling and children playing. Among them, depict a couple engaged in a discussion about baby names, specifically considering the name "Kirk". The atmosphere should emanate a sense of joy and relief as the decreased pollution levels allow people to relish the fresh air and consider baby names freely and without hesitation. The image should convey a realistic and soothing ambiance, celebrating the newfound clarity and freedom in the environment.

*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 a decrease in Air pollution in San Diego, California caused Popularity of the first name Kirk to decrease. Include one good pun.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
The Smog Blog: Does Air Pollution Foggily Influence the Propensity for the Name Kirk?

The Journal of Quirky Environmental Influences

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 San Diego, California and Popularity of the first name Kirk. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Rhyme words in the title.

Your research team used data from Environmental Protection Agency and US Social Security Administration to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.9721452 and p < 0.01 for 1980 to 2022.

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 Smog Blog: Does Air Pollution Foggily Influence the Propensity for the Name Kirk?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve into the whimsical world of correlation between air pollution in sunny San Diego, California, and the popularity of the name "Kirk." Our research team harnessed data sources from the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Social Security Administration, embarking on a voyage to uncover potential links between smog and monikers. After crunching the numbers, our findings reveal a staggering correlation coefficient of 0.9721452, accompanied by a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years spanning 1980 to 2022. Our results not only shed light on the unforeseen relationship between air quality and appellations, but also spark hilarity among academicians as we ponder how the haze of air pollution might inadvertently influence the naming decisions of parents. So, let's air-pollute this myth that names are free from atmospheric influence - it seems that the cloud of smog just might be casting its shadow over the name Kirk!


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 San Diego, California and Popularity of the first name Kirk. 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]]
The Smog Blog: Does Air Pollution Foggily Influence the Propensity for the Name Kirk?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve into the whimsical world of correlation between air pollution in sunny San Diego, California, and the popularity of the name "Kirk." Our research team harnessed data sources from the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Social Security Administration, embarking on a voyage to uncover potential links between smog and monikers. After crunching the numbers, our findings reveal a staggering correlation coefficient of 0.9721452, accompanied by a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years spanning 1980 to 2022. Our results not only shed light on the unforeseen relationship between air quality and appellations, but also spark hilarity among academicians as we ponder how the haze of air pollution might inadvertently influence the naming decisions of parents. So, let's air-pollute this myth that names are free from atmospheric influence - it seems that the cloud of smog just might be casting its shadow over the name Kirk!

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The quest to understand and untangle the enigmatic web of human behavior and external influences has led researchers to explore myriad unexpected correlations. In the realm of nomenclature, the link between air pollution and the popularity of specific names may seem like a whimsical pursuit, but as we peer through the fog of statistical analysis, a peculiar connection emerges.

San Diego, known for its sun-drenched beaches and perpetually mild climate, also grapples with the insidious presence of air pollution. The city, nestled on the scenic shores of Southern California, has long been a crucible for the effects of urbanization and vehicular emissions, which form an atmospheric mélange of particulate matter and ozone.

Meanwhile, the name "Kirk" has traversed the cultural landscape with a sporadic, yet persistent, presence. From the gallant Captain Kirk in the iconic Star Trek series to the affable Kirk from the neighborhood, this moniker holds a curious sway over the collective consciousness.

Our investigation aims to illuminate the obscurities surrounding the potential tether between these seemingly disparate phenomena. Through empirical analysis and a touch of whimsy, we seek to uncover whether the fog of air pollution might be surreptitiously influencing the proclivity for parents to bestow the name "Kirk" upon their offspring. As we embark upon this intellectual escapade, we stride into the realm where the roiling tendrils of air pollution intersect with the quirky choices of baby names, where statistical rigor and irreverent curiosity collide.

So, buckle up and prepare to navigate the labyrinth of data and conjecture, for the intriguing tale of air pollution and the name "Kirk" is about to unfold before your eyes. Let us embark upon this smoggy, yet illuminating, journey together.


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 San Diego, California and Popularity of the first name Kirk. 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 name some movies that you watched that are tangentially related to the topic.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
The Smog Blog: Does Air Pollution Foggily Influence the Propensity for the Name Kirk?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve into the whimsical world of correlation between air pollution in sunny San Diego, California, and the popularity of the name "Kirk." Our research team harnessed data sources from the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Social Security Administration, embarking on a voyage to uncover potential links between smog and monikers. After crunching the numbers, our findings reveal a staggering correlation coefficient of 0.9721452, accompanied by a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years spanning 1980 to 2022. Our results not only shed light on the unforeseen relationship between air quality and appellations, but also spark hilarity among academicians as we ponder how the haze of air pollution might inadvertently influence the naming decisions of parents. So, let's air-pollute this myth that names are free from atmospheric influence - it seems that the cloud of smog just might be casting its shadow over the name Kirk!

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The quest to understand and untangle the enigmatic web of human behavior and external influences has led researchers to explore myriad unexpected correlations. In the realm of nomenclature, the link between air pollution and the popularity of specific names may seem like a whimsical pursuit, but as we peer through the fog of statistical analysis, a peculiar connection emerges.
San Diego, known for its sun-drenched beaches and perpetually mild climate, also grapples with the insidious presence of air pollution. The city, nestled on the scenic shores of Southern California, has long been a crucible for the effects of urbanization and vehicular emissions, which form an atmospheric mélange of particulate matter and ozone.
Meanwhile, the name "Kirk" has traversed the cultural landscape with a sporadic, yet persistent, presence. From the gallant Captain Kirk in the iconic Star Trek series to the affable Kirk from the neighborhood, this moniker holds a curious sway over the collective consciousness.
Our investigation aims to illuminate the obscurities surrounding the potential tether between these seemingly disparate phenomena. Through empirical analysis and a touch of whimsy, we seek to uncover whether the fog of air pollution might be surreptitiously influencing the proclivity for parents to bestow the name "Kirk" upon their offspring. As we embark upon this intellectual escapade, we stride into the realm where the roiling tendrils of air pollution intersect with the quirky choices of baby names, where statistical rigor and irreverent curiosity collide.
So, buckle up and prepare to navigate the labyrinth of data and conjecture, for the intriguing tale of air pollution and the name "Kirk" is about to unfold before your eyes. Let us embark upon this smoggy, yet illuminating, journey together.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The investigation into the curious relationship between air pollution in San Diego and the popularity of the name "Kirk" unfurls a tapestry of peculiar findings, straddling the realms of environmental science and the unpredictability of human choices. While the correlation may seem as elusive as an oxygen molecule in a haze of smog, our examination of the extant literature reveals a bountiful mix of serious studies, quirky books, and cinematic escapades that have danced around this whimsical correlation.

In "Smith et al.'s Epidemiological Study of Air Pollution," the authors find a robust association between elevated levels of air pollutants and adverse health outcomes. While the focus of the study revolves around respiratory diseases and cardiovascular conditions, the air of intrigue thickens as we contemplate whether the nebulous tendrils of air pollution could extend their influence to something as seemingly innocuous as the choice of a name.

Steering into the frothy waves of non-fiction literature, "The Air We Breathe" by Andrea Barrett metamorphoses into a pivotal touchstone. Barrett's exploration of the human impact on the environment intertwines with the cultural nuances of naming, creating a tantalizing backdrop against which to juxtapose our research findings. Additionally, "San Diego: Then and Now" by David Marshall pairs the historical evolution of the city with present-day environmental concerns, offering a tangential glimpse into the atmospheric complexities that envelop San Diego.

As we delve into the literary realms of fiction, we encounter "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri, a riveting saga that traverses the terrain of identity and namesake. While the narrative may not directly address the eccentric correlation at hand, it proffers insight into the significance imbued within names. Furthermore, "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck weaves a captivating tale of kinship and familial bonds, alluding to the profound impact that a moniker can wield within the annals of personal and collective histories.

In the realm of cinematic contemplation, "The Fog" tantalizes with its spectral mists and enigmatic atmospheres, offering a salient dose of visual allure that speaks to the nebulous nature of our investigation. Meanwhile, "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" propels us into the cosmic expanse, with Captain Kirk navigating the astral seas in a vessel of irresistible charisma. These cinematic escapades, though ostensibly unrelated, beckon us to consider the intertwining of cultural depictions and atmospheric influences on nomenclature.

As our foray into the eclectic amalgamation of literature, film, and research draws to a close, the whimsy and gravity of our endeavor intertwine, beckoning us to ruminate upon the iridescent tapestry of human curiosity and the enigmatic forces that shape our choices - from the air we breathe to the names we bestow.


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 San Diego, California and Popularity of the first name Kirk. 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 US Social Security Administration . You used data from 1980 to 2022

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 Smog Blog: Does Air Pollution Foggily Influence the Propensity for the Name Kirk?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve into the whimsical world of correlation between air pollution in sunny San Diego, California, and the popularity of the name "Kirk." Our research team harnessed data sources from the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Social Security Administration, embarking on a voyage to uncover potential links between smog and monikers. After crunching the numbers, our findings reveal a staggering correlation coefficient of 0.9721452, accompanied by a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years spanning 1980 to 2022. Our results not only shed light on the unforeseen relationship between air quality and appellations, but also spark hilarity among academicians as we ponder how the haze of air pollution might inadvertently influence the naming decisions of parents. So, let's air-pollute this myth that names are free from atmospheric influence - it seems that the cloud of smog just might be casting its shadow over the name Kirk!

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The quest to understand and untangle the enigmatic web of human behavior and external influences has led researchers to explore myriad unexpected correlations. In the realm of nomenclature, the link between air pollution and the popularity of specific names may seem like a whimsical pursuit, but as we peer through the fog of statistical analysis, a peculiar connection emerges.
San Diego, known for its sun-drenched beaches and perpetually mild climate, also grapples with the insidious presence of air pollution. The city, nestled on the scenic shores of Southern California, has long been a crucible for the effects of urbanization and vehicular emissions, which form an atmospheric mélange of particulate matter and ozone.
Meanwhile, the name "Kirk" has traversed the cultural landscape with a sporadic, yet persistent, presence. From the gallant Captain Kirk in the iconic Star Trek series to the affable Kirk from the neighborhood, this moniker holds a curious sway over the collective consciousness.
Our investigation aims to illuminate the obscurities surrounding the potential tether between these seemingly disparate phenomena. Through empirical analysis and a touch of whimsy, we seek to uncover whether the fog of air pollution might be surreptitiously influencing the proclivity for parents to bestow the name "Kirk" upon their offspring. As we embark upon this intellectual escapade, we stride into the realm where the roiling tendrils of air pollution intersect with the quirky choices of baby names, where statistical rigor and irreverent curiosity collide.
So, buckle up and prepare to navigate the labyrinth of data and conjecture, for the intriguing tale of air pollution and the name "Kirk" is about to unfold before your eyes. Let us embark upon this smoggy, yet illuminating, journey together.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

The methodology employed in this investigation is as wacky and whimsical as the correlation we sought to unveil. Our research team embarked on a wild goose chase across the digital realm, utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the US Social Security Administration (SSA) to wrangle the interconnection between air pollution and the name "Kirk."

To kick things off, we first donned our virtual detective hats and scoured the depths of the EPA's databases, hunting for air quality data specific to sunny San Diego, California. We perused through a veritable smorgasbord of metrics, including atmospheric levels of carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and fine particulate matter - all with the fervor of enthusiastic treasure hunters seeking the elusive data booty.

Armed with our trove of atmospheric data, we then turned our attention to the SSA's records, where we diligently combed through the annals of baby names from the years 1980 to 2022. Our mission: to unearth any sign of fluctuation in the popularity of the name "Kirk."

Upon gathering these eclectic datasets, we wielded the formidable powers of statistical analysis. We deployed the arcane arts of correlation analysis to scrutinize the relationship between air quality and the prevalence of the name "Kirk" with all the solemnity befitting a sorcerer invoking ancient spells. Our favored incantations of choice were the robust Pearson correlation coefficient and the formidable p-value, both of which we conjured with the precision of mathematicians performing an intricate ballet.

Lastly, to guard against the perils of spurious correlation and the mischievous antics of confounding variables, we dutifully conducted sensitivity analyses and employed the time-honored techniques of multivariate regression models. These served as our trusty shields against the whims of statistical tomfoolery, ensuring that our findings bore the stamp of scholarly reliability in the face of such a curious conundrum.

In summation, our methodology danced a mad tango between the empirical and the bizarre, shrouded in the haze of statistical rigor and the zany antics of data spelunking. With these tools at our disposal, we endeavored to cast light on the radiant correlation between air pollution and the name "Kirk," proving once and for all that the tendrils of statistical inquiry can reach even into the clouded skies.

Now, let the results of our kooky crusade unfurl before your eyes!


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 San Diego, California and Popularity of the first name Kirk. 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 US Social Security Administration .

For the time period 1980 to 2022, you found a correlation 0.9721452, r-squared of 0.9450664, 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 Smog Blog: Does Air Pollution Foggily Influence the Propensity for the Name Kirk?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve into the whimsical world of correlation between air pollution in sunny San Diego, California, and the popularity of the name "Kirk." Our research team harnessed data sources from the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Social Security Administration, embarking on a voyage to uncover potential links between smog and monikers. After crunching the numbers, our findings reveal a staggering correlation coefficient of 0.9721452, accompanied by a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years spanning 1980 to 2022. Our results not only shed light on the unforeseen relationship between air quality and appellations, but also spark hilarity among academicians as we ponder how the haze of air pollution might inadvertently influence the naming decisions of parents. So, let's air-pollute this myth that names are free from atmospheric influence - it seems that the cloud of smog just might be casting its shadow over the name Kirk!

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The quest to understand and untangle the enigmatic web of human behavior and external influences has led researchers to explore myriad unexpected correlations. In the realm of nomenclature, the link between air pollution and the popularity of specific names may seem like a whimsical pursuit, but as we peer through the fog of statistical analysis, a peculiar connection emerges.
San Diego, known for its sun-drenched beaches and perpetually mild climate, also grapples with the insidious presence of air pollution. The city, nestled on the scenic shores of Southern California, has long been a crucible for the effects of urbanization and vehicular emissions, which form an atmospheric mélange of particulate matter and ozone.
Meanwhile, the name "Kirk" has traversed the cultural landscape with a sporadic, yet persistent, presence. From the gallant Captain Kirk in the iconic Star Trek series to the affable Kirk from the neighborhood, this moniker holds a curious sway over the collective consciousness.
Our investigation aims to illuminate the obscurities surrounding the potential tether between these seemingly disparate phenomena. Through empirical analysis and a touch of whimsy, we seek to uncover whether the fog of air pollution might be surreptitiously influencing the proclivity for parents to bestow the name "Kirk" upon their offspring. As we embark upon this intellectual escapade, we stride into the realm where the roiling tendrils of air pollution intersect with the quirky choices of baby names, where statistical rigor and irreverent curiosity collide.
So, buckle up and prepare to navigate the labyrinth of data and conjecture, for the intriguing tale of air pollution and the name "Kirk" is about to unfold before your eyes. Let us embark upon this smoggy, yet illuminating, journey together.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

Our analysis of the data gathered from the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Social Security Administration has unearthed a striking relationship between air pollution in San Diego, California, and the popularity of the first name "Kirk." Across the time period from 1980 to 2022, we found a robust correlation coefficient of 0.9721452, indicating a highly significant association between these seemingly unrelated variables. The r-squared value of 0.9450664 further underscores the strength of this relationship, as it explains a substantial proportion of the variance in the popularity of the name "Kirk" solely based on air pollution levels. With a p-value of less than 0.01, our results stand as a testament to the undeniable connection between atmospheric haze and the selection of this particular moniker.

Remarkably, our findings are encapsulated in Figure 1, where a scatterplot vividly illustrates the tight clustering of data points, mirroring the close alignment between air pollution and the frequency of the name "Kirk." It's as if the particles in the air have formed their own symbolic representation of this unexpected correlation, a veritable smog-induced homage to the influence of environmental factors on nomenclature.

As we unravel the implications of our research, we are confronted with the whimsical conundrum of how the atmospheric milieu of San Diego astoundingly appears to sway the naming preferences of parents. The notion that the murky haze of air pollution could etch its imprint on the moniker "Kirk" sets the stage for a lighthearted yet thought-provoking discussion on the mysterious ways in which human behavior intersects with external stimuli. Here, in the hazy landscape of statistical significance, we find ourselves face to face with the uncanny intertwining of air pollution and appellations, a tale as beguiling as it is unexpected.

Intriguingly, our results not only expand the frontiers of empirical inquiry but also inject a healthy dose of mirth into the academic discourse. While we grapple with the weighty implications of our findings, it's impossible to resist a chuckle at the notion that the ethereal tendrils of smog might be weaving their way through the subconscious minds of parents, gently nudging them toward the name "Kirk." It seems that amidst the haze of statistical analysis, a whimsical dance of environmental influence and human choice unfolds, inviting us to ponder the capricious interplay between air pollution and the popularization of a name.

Furthermore, the robustness of our results urges us to contemplate the transcendental nature of this correlation, prompting us to reconsider the oft-overlooked interplay between atmospheric conditions and the delicate art of naming. With each passing gust of air and each utterance of the name "Kirk," we are reminded that the inescapable tug of external influences can manifest in the most unexpected of domains, providing us with a touch of levity amidst the weight of empirical rigor.

In sum, our research not only underscores the remarkable correlation between air pollution in San Diego and the prevalence of the name "Kirk," but also beckons us to revel in the delightful whimsy that arises when statistical inquiry intersects with the peculiar idiosyncrasies of human behavior. So, let us embrace the enigmatic tale of air pollution and the name "Kirk," for it offers not only an enlightening insight but also a generous dose of merriment in the staid corridors of academic investigation.


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 San Diego, California and Popularity of the first name Kirk. 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]]
The Smog Blog: Does Air Pollution Foggily Influence the Propensity for the Name Kirk?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve into the whimsical world of correlation between air pollution in sunny San Diego, California, and the popularity of the name "Kirk." Our research team harnessed data sources from the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Social Security Administration, embarking on a voyage to uncover potential links between smog and monikers. After crunching the numbers, our findings reveal a staggering correlation coefficient of 0.9721452, accompanied by a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years spanning 1980 to 2022. Our results not only shed light on the unforeseen relationship between air quality and appellations, but also spark hilarity among academicians as we ponder how the haze of air pollution might inadvertently influence the naming decisions of parents. So, let's air-pollute this myth that names are free from atmospheric influence - it seems that the cloud of smog just might be casting its shadow over the name Kirk!

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The investigation into the curious relationship between air pollution in San Diego and the popularity of the name "Kirk" unfurls a tapestry of peculiar findings, straddling the realms of environmental science and the unpredictability of human choices. While the correlation may seem as elusive as an oxygen molecule in a haze of smog, our examination of the extant literature reveals a bountiful mix of serious studies, quirky books, and cinematic escapades that have danced around this whimsical correlation.
In "Smith et al.'s Epidemiological Study of Air Pollution," the authors find a robust association between elevated levels of air pollutants and adverse health outcomes. While the focus of the study revolves around respiratory diseases and cardiovascular conditions, the air of intrigue thickens as we contemplate whether the nebulous tendrils of air pollution could extend their influence to something as seemingly innocuous as the choice of a name.
Steering into the frothy waves of non-fiction literature, "The Air We Breathe" by Andrea Barrett metamorphoses into a pivotal touchstone. Barrett's exploration of the human impact on the environment intertwines with the cultural nuances of naming, creating a tantalizing backdrop against which to juxtapose our research findings. Additionally, "San Diego: Then and Now" by David Marshall pairs the historical evolution of the city with present-day environmental concerns, offering a tangential glimpse into the atmospheric complexities that envelop San Diego.
As we delve into the literary realms of fiction, we encounter "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri, a riveting saga that traverses the terrain of identity and namesake. While the narrative may not directly address the eccentric correlation at hand, it proffers insight into the significance imbued within names. Furthermore, "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck weaves a captivating tale of kinship and familial bonds, alluding to the profound impact that a moniker can wield within the annals of personal and collective histories.
In the realm of cinematic contemplation, "The Fog" tantalizes with its spectral mists and enigmatic atmospheres, offering a salient dose of visual allure that speaks to the nebulous nature of our investigation. Meanwhile, "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" propels us into the cosmic expanse, with Captain Kirk navigating the astral seas in a vessel of irresistible charisma. These cinematic escapades, though ostensibly unrelated, beckon us to consider the intertwining of cultural depictions and atmospheric influences on nomenclature.
As our foray into the eclectic amalgamation of literature, film, and research draws to a close, the whimsy and gravity of our endeavor intertwine, beckoning us to ruminate upon the iridescent tapestry of human curiosity and the enigmatic forces that shape our choices - from the air we breathe to the names we bestow.

[[RESULTS]]
Our analysis of the data gathered from the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Social Security Administration has unearthed a striking relationship between air pollution in San Diego, California, and the popularity of the first name "Kirk." Across the time period from 1980 to 2022, we found a robust correlation coefficient of 0.9721452, indicating a highly significant association between these seemingly unrelated variables. The r-squared value of 0.9450664 further underscores the strength of this relationship, as it explains a substantial proportion of the variance in the popularity of the name "Kirk" solely based on air pollution levels. With a p-value of less than 0.01, our results stand as a testament to the undeniable connection between atmospheric haze and the selection of this particular moniker.
Remarkably, our findings are encapsulated in Figure 1, where a scatterplot vividly illustrates the tight clustering of data points, mirroring the close alignment between air pollution and the frequency of the name "Kirk." It's as if the particles in the air have formed their own symbolic representation of this unexpected correlation, a veritable smog-induced homage to the influence of environmental factors on nomenclature.
As we unravel the implications of our research, we are confronted with the whimsical conundrum of how the atmospheric milieu of San Diego astoundingly appears to sway the naming preferences of parents. The notion that the murky haze of air pollution could etch its imprint on the moniker "Kirk" sets the stage for a lighthearted yet thought-provoking discussion on the mysterious ways in which human behavior intersects with external stimuli. Here, in the hazy landscape of statistical significance, we find ourselves face to face with the uncanny intertwining of air pollution and appellations, a tale as beguiling as it is unexpected.
Intriguingly, our results not only expand the frontiers of empirical inquiry but also inject a healthy dose of mirth into the academic discourse. While we grapple with the weighty implications of our findings, it's impossible to resist a chuckle at the notion that the ethereal tendrils of smog might be weaving their way through the subconscious minds of parents, gently nudging them toward the name "Kirk." It seems that amidst the haze of statistical analysis, a whimsical dance of environmental influence and human choice unfolds, inviting us to ponder the capricious interplay between air pollution and the popularization of a name.
Furthermore, the robustness of our results urges us to contemplate the transcendental nature of this correlation, prompting us to reconsider the oft-overlooked interplay between atmospheric conditions and the delicate art of naming. With each passing gust of air and each utterance of the name "Kirk," we are reminded that the inescapable tug of external influences can manifest in the most unexpected of domains, providing us with a touch of levity amidst the weight of empirical rigor.
In sum, our research not only underscores the remarkable correlation between air pollution in San Diego and the prevalence of the name "Kirk," but also beckons us to revel in the delightful whimsy that arises when statistical inquiry intersects with the peculiar idiosyncrasies of human behavior. So, let us embrace the enigmatic tale of air pollution and the name "Kirk," for it offers not only an enlightening insight but also a generous dose of merriment in the staid corridors of academic investigation.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our study has unveiled an unexpected and seemingly absurd correlation between air pollution in San Diego, California, and the popularity of the first name "Kirk." While such a connection may appear as whimsical as a light-hearted jest, our findings echo the sentiments of previous researchers who have delved into the peculiar realm of atmospheric influences on human behavior.

As we harken back to the quirky items in our literature review, we must acknowledge the seriousness with which these seemingly unrelated topics have been handled. The robust association between elevated levels of air pollutants and adverse health outcomes, as elucidated by Smith et al., provides a tangible foundation for the potential reach of air pollution's influence, extending even to something as seemingly innocuous as naming preferences. The literature, both non-fiction and fictional, has delved into the significance of names and identities, teasing the edges of our understanding of how environmental factors may unconsciously seep into the subconscious minds of parents as they bestow names upon their progeny.

Our results playfully support and amplify the gravity of these previous works, unfurling a statistical narrative that mirrors the close alignment between air pollution and the frequency of the name "Kirk." This unexpected correlation serves as a reminder of the whimsical conundrums that statistical analysis can uncover and the captivating interplay between environmental influences and human choices. The evident strength of this relationship, as encapsulated by our robust correlation coefficient and significant p-value, testifies to the revelatory nature of our findings and the unexpected ways in which external factors can influence the naming preferences of individuals.

In a sea of statistical analysis, it's impossible not to be charmed by the notion that the murky haze of air pollution might subtly influence the selection of the name "Kirk." Our results, while grounded in empirical rigor, also beckon us to revel in the delightful whimsy that arises when unexpected correlations are unearthed. The uncanny dance of environmental influence and human choice invites us to reconsider the transcendental nature of this correlation, prodding us to ponder the capricious interplay between air pollution and the popularization of a name.

Moreover, our research has injected a healthy dose of mirth into the academic discourse, spurring laughter amidst the weight of empirical rigor. As we grapple with the weighty implications of our findings, it's important to recognize the light-heartedness that this unexpected correlation brings into the academic arena. After all, who could have guessed that the ethereal tendrils of smog might be weaving their way through the subconscious minds of parents, gently nudging them toward the name "Kirk"?

In conclusion, our study stands as an ode to the unexpected and the whimsical, urging us to embrace the enigmatic tale of air pollution and the name "Kirk." It offers not only an enlightening insight but also a generous dose of merriment in the staid corridors of academic investigation. As we continue to navigate the ever-unfolding tapestry of scientific inquiry, let us not forget to revel in the delightful surprises that arise when statistical analysis intersects with the peculiar idiosyncrasies of human behavior. After all, who would have thought that a mist of statistical significance could elicit a chuckle and a smirk in the hallowed halls of academia?


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 San Diego, California and Popularity of the first name Kirk. 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]]
The Smog Blog: Does Air Pollution Foggily Influence the Propensity for the Name Kirk?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve into the whimsical world of correlation between air pollution in sunny San Diego, California, and the popularity of the name "Kirk." Our research team harnessed data sources from the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Social Security Administration, embarking on a voyage to uncover potential links between smog and monikers. After crunching the numbers, our findings reveal a staggering correlation coefficient of 0.9721452, accompanied by a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years spanning 1980 to 2022. Our results not only shed light on the unforeseen relationship between air quality and appellations, but also spark hilarity among academicians as we ponder how the haze of air pollution might inadvertently influence the naming decisions of parents. So, let's air-pollute this myth that names are free from atmospheric influence - it seems that the cloud of smog just might be casting its shadow over the name Kirk!

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The quest to understand and untangle the enigmatic web of human behavior and external influences has led researchers to explore myriad unexpected correlations. In the realm of nomenclature, the link between air pollution and the popularity of specific names may seem like a whimsical pursuit, but as we peer through the fog of statistical analysis, a peculiar connection emerges.
San Diego, known for its sun-drenched beaches and perpetually mild climate, also grapples with the insidious presence of air pollution. The city, nestled on the scenic shores of Southern California, has long been a crucible for the effects of urbanization and vehicular emissions, which form an atmospheric mélange of particulate matter and ozone.
Meanwhile, the name "Kirk" has traversed the cultural landscape with a sporadic, yet persistent, presence. From the gallant Captain Kirk in the iconic Star Trek series to the affable Kirk from the neighborhood, this moniker holds a curious sway over the collective consciousness.
Our investigation aims to illuminate the obscurities surrounding the potential tether between these seemingly disparate phenomena. Through empirical analysis and a touch of whimsy, we seek to uncover whether the fog of air pollution might be surreptitiously influencing the proclivity for parents to bestow the name "Kirk" upon their offspring. As we embark upon this intellectual escapade, we stride into the realm where the roiling tendrils of air pollution intersect with the quirky choices of baby names, where statistical rigor and irreverent curiosity collide.
So, buckle up and prepare to navigate the labyrinth of data and conjecture, for the intriguing tale of air pollution and the name "Kirk" is about to unfold before your eyes. Let us embark upon this smoggy, yet illuminating, journey together.

[[RESULTS]]
Our analysis of the data gathered from the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Social Security Administration has unearthed a striking relationship between air pollution in San Diego, California, and the popularity of the first name "Kirk." Across the time period from 1980 to 2022, we found a robust correlation coefficient of 0.9721452, indicating a highly significant association between these seemingly unrelated variables. The r-squared value of 0.9450664 further underscores the strength of this relationship, as it explains a substantial proportion of the variance in the popularity of the name "Kirk" solely based on air pollution levels. With a p-value of less than 0.01, our results stand as a testament to the undeniable connection between atmospheric haze and the selection of this particular moniker.
Remarkably, our findings are encapsulated in Figure 1, where a scatterplot vividly illustrates the tight clustering of data points, mirroring the close alignment between air pollution and the frequency of the name "Kirk." It's as if the particles in the air have formed their own symbolic representation of this unexpected correlation, a veritable smog-induced homage to the influence of environmental factors on nomenclature.
As we unravel the implications of our research, we are confronted with the whimsical conundrum of how the atmospheric milieu of San Diego astoundingly appears to sway the naming preferences of parents. The notion that the murky haze of air pollution could etch its imprint on the moniker "Kirk" sets the stage for a lighthearted yet thought-provoking discussion on the mysterious ways in which human behavior intersects with external stimuli. Here, in the hazy landscape of statistical significance, we find ourselves face to face with the uncanny intertwining of air pollution and appellations, a tale as beguiling as it is unexpected.
Intriguingly, our results not only expand the frontiers of empirical inquiry but also inject a healthy dose of mirth into the academic discourse. While we grapple with the weighty implications of our findings, it's impossible to resist a chuckle at the notion that the ethereal tendrils of smog might be weaving their way through the subconscious minds of parents, gently nudging them toward the name "Kirk." It seems that amidst the haze of statistical analysis, a whimsical dance of environmental influence and human choice unfolds, inviting us to ponder the capricious interplay between air pollution and the popularization of a name.
Furthermore, the robustness of our results urges us to contemplate the transcendental nature of this correlation, prompting us to reconsider the oft-overlooked interplay between atmospheric conditions and the delicate art of naming. With each passing gust of air and each utterance of the name "Kirk," we are reminded that the inescapable tug of external influences can manifest in the most unexpected of domains, providing us with a touch of levity amidst the weight of empirical rigor.
In sum, our research not only underscores the remarkable correlation between air pollution in San Diego and the prevalence of the name "Kirk," but also beckons us to revel in the delightful whimsy that arises when statistical inquiry intersects with the peculiar idiosyncrasies of human behavior. So, let us embrace the enigmatic tale of air pollution and the name "Kirk," for it offers not only an enlightening insight but also a generous dose of merriment in the staid corridors of academic investigation.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our study has untangled the captivating correlation between air pollution in sunny San Diego and the popularity of the first name Kirk, shedding light on a delightful confluence of atmospheric haze and appellations. The robust correlation coefficient of 0.9721452 and the p-value of less than 0.01 unequivocally validate the unexpected tether between these seemingly disparate variables, charmingly illustrating the whimsical ways in which external influences intertwine with human choices.

As we traverse the foggy terrain of statistical significance, one cannot help but marvel at the striking dance of air pollution and nomenclature, where the ethereal tendrils of smog seemingly cast their zany spell on the hearts and minds of parents. It appears that amidst the sunny climes of San Diego, the smoggy specter exerts a curious influence, gently nudging them toward the endearing moniker "Kirk." It's as if the haze of air pollution has surreptitiously whispered its inchoate desires, weaving its own hazy narrative into the fabric of naming conventions.

While the implications of our findings may appear lighthearted, they beckon us to peer beneath the surface and embrace the peculiarities of human behavior with a twinkle in our eyes. As we bid adieu to this scholarly escapade, it becomes abundantly clear that no more research is needed in this area. Our results stand as a fervent testament to the mirthful synergy between air pollution and the name "Kirk," compelling us to revel in the capricious interplay of atmospheric whimsy and the quirks of human choice.

Thus, with a resounding chuckle and an irrepressible sense of whimsy, we lay this tale of atmospheric merriment to rest, for the tale of air pollution and the name "Kirk" is not only one of empirical intrigue but also a lighthearted reminder of the delightful twists and turns that await us in the whimsical folds of academic inquiry.


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 Smog Blog: Does Air Pollution Foggily Influence the Propensity for the Name Kirk?. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Quirky Environmental Influences


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 Smog Blog: Does Air Pollution Foggily Influence the Propensity for the Name Kirk?. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The International Institute for Atmospheric and Cognitive 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 Smog Blog: Does Air Pollution Foggily Influence the Propensity for the Name Kirk? with an abstract of In this study, we delve into the whimsical world of correlation between air pollution in sunny San Diego, California, and the popularity of the name "Kirk." Our research team harnessed data sources from the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Social Security Administration, embarking on a voyage to uncover potential links between smog and monikers. After crunching the numbers, our findings reveal a staggering correlation coefficient of 0.9721452, accompanied by a p-value of less than 0.01 for the years spanning 1980 to 2022. Our results not only shed light on the unforeseen relationship between air quality and appellations, but also spark hilarity among academicians as we ponder how the haze of air pollution might inadvertently influence the naming decisions of parents. So, let's air-pollute this myth that names are free from atmospheric influence - it seems that the cloud of smog just might be casting its shadow over the name Kirk!

ChatGPT:

air pollution, smog, San Diego, California, Kirk, name popularity, correlation, EPA, US Social Security Administration, atmospheric influence, naming decisions, correlation coefficient, p-value, research findings

*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 San Diego, California
Detailed data title: Percentage of days with air quality at 'unhealthy for sensitive groups' or worse in San Diego-Carlsbad, CA
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
See what else correlates with Air pollution in San Diego, California

Popularity of the first name Kirk
Detailed data title: Babies of all sexes born in the US named Kirk
Source: US Social Security Administration
See what else correlates with Popularity of the first name Kirk

Correlation r = 0.9721452 (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 = 0.9450664 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 94.5% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Popularity of the first name Kirk) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Air pollution in San Diego, California) over the 43 years from 1980 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 1.9E-27. 0.0000000000000000000000000019
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 0.97 in 1.9E-25% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 526,315,789,473,684,192,202,063,872 random variables You don't actually need 526 septillion 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 42 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 42 because we have two variables measured over a period of 43 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.

[ 0.95, 0.98 ] 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.
1980198119821983198419851986198719881989199019911992199319941995199619971998199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022
Air pollution in San Diego, California (Bad air quality days)57.103859.72644.657544.383650.819752.054851.506949.86361.202261.369952.328842.739740.710435.342535.890435.616425.409819.72624.109627.945226.502724.931520.547921.643815.027315.068519.452116.712320.218613.42476.849329.315079.8360710.13710.684911.232911.475416.98639.589046.8493213.3884.383567.12329
Popularity of the first name Kirk (Babies born)7977176706416916816497318108456995625154243793163033172312211891781611581401411211249511110296971121049280957076676755




Why this works

  1. Data dredging: I have 25,153 variables in my database. I compare all these variables against each other to find ones that randomly match up. That's 632,673,409 correlation calculations! This is called “data dredging.” Instead of starting with a hypothesis and testing it, I instead abused the data to see what correlations shake out. It’s a dangerous way to go about analysis, because any sufficiently large dataset will yield strong correlations completely at random.
  2. Lack of causal connection: There is probably Because these pages are automatically generated, it's possible that the two variables you are viewing are in fact causually related. I take steps to prevent the obvious ones from showing on the site (I don't let data about the weather in one city correlate with the weather in a neighboring city, for example), but sometimes they still pop up. If they are related, cool! You found a loophole.
    no direct connection between these variables, despite what the AI says above. This is exacerbated by the fact that I used "Years" as the base variable. Lots of things happen in a year that are not related to each other! Most studies would use something like "one person" in stead of "one year" to be the "thing" studied.
  3. Observations not independent: For many variables, sequential years are not independent of each other. If a population of people is continuously doing something every day, there is no reason to think they would suddenly change how they are doing that thing on January 1. A simple Personally I don't find any p-value calculation to be 'simple,' but you know what I mean.
    p-value calculation does not take this into account, so mathematically it appears less probable than it really is.




Try it yourself

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([57.1038,59.726,44.6575,44.3836,50.8197,52.0548,51.5069,49.863,61.2022,61.3699,52.3288,42.7397,40.7104,35.3425,35.8904,35.6164,25.4098,19.726,24.1096,27.9452,26.5027,24.9315,20.5479,21.6438,15.0273,15.0685,19.4521,16.7123,20.2186,13.4247,6.84932,9.31507,9.83607,10.137,10.6849,11.2329,11.4754,16.9863,9.58904,6.84932,13.388,4.38356,7.12329,])
array_2 = np.array([797,717,670,641,691,681,649,731,810,845,699,562,515,424,379,316,303,317,231,221,189,178,161,158,140,141,121,124,95,111,102,96,97,112,104,92,80,95,70,76,67,67,55,])
array_1_name = "Air pollution in San Diego, California"
array_2_name = "Popularity of the first name Kirk"

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

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

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

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Correlation ID: 5949 · Black Variable ID: 21206 · Red Variable ID: 3259
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