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Spurious correlation #1,110 · 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 Claremont, New Hampshire and the second variable is Google searches for 'shrek'.  The chart goes from 2004 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

The cleaner air led to happier and more productive citizens, who no longer felt the need to escape reality by searching for everyone's favorite ogre. With clearer skies and fresher breezes, the people of Claremont found their own swamp-free happiness right at home, and Shrek's popularity took a nosedive faster than you can say "ogre easy, ogre low." It just go to show, when the air is pure, even a beloved green giant might find himself feeling a little "ogre-whelmed" by the lack of attention. Remember, in the kingdom of correlation, sometimes the most unlikely pairs are the ones that will have you saying, "What are you doing in my causal chain?!"

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Visual Prompt: Create an image of a serene, idyllic town scene with bright, clear skies. The town should have a peaceful atmosphere, with trees, houses, and people strolling about. The image should also subtly convey the idea that the air pollution has dissipated. One creative touch could be to have a diminishing depiction of Shrek in the background, fading as the pollution clears, symbolizing the town's transition to cleaner, fresher air. 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 Claremont, New Hampshire and Google searches for 'shrek'. 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: Parallax art a meme a meme An image that looks like it is a scene from 'Star Wars' Brutalism
ChatGPT: A meme

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 Claremont, New Hampshire and Google searches for 'shrek', in the following situation: As the air cleared, people were no longer ogrewhelmed by the stench of pollution. Without the smog, they didn't feel the need to swamp their minds with thoughts of Shrek. It seems the decrease in air pollution really put a Fiona the citizens to search for other things Donkey taxing their minds! . Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In Claremont, New Hampshire, the air used to be thick with pollution, casting a hazy shroud over the town. But as the air cleared, a sense of relief swept over the streets. With clearer skies, people were no longer ogrewhelmed by the pollution, and the need to search for 'shrek' on Google seemed to fade away. The decrease in air pollution had truly lifted the spirits of the citizens, and they were now free to focus on brighter, cleaner things in life.

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 meme ] and depicting this scene: In Claremont, New Hampshire, the air used to be thick with pollution, casting a hazy shroud over the town. But as the air cleared, a sense of relief swept over the streets. With clearer skies, people were no longer ogrewhelmed by the pollution, and the need to search for 'shrek' on Google seemed to fade away. The decrease in air pollution had truly lifted the spirits of the citizens, and they were now free to focus on brighter, cleaner things in life. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Visual Prompt: Create an image of a serene, idyllic town scene with bright, clear skies. The town should have a peaceful atmosphere, with trees, houses, and people strolling about. The image should also subtly convey the idea that the air pollution has dissipated. One creative touch could be to have a diminishing depiction of Shrek in the background, fading as the pollution clears, symbolizing the town's transition to cleaner, fresher air.

*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 Claremont, New Hampshire caused shrek (Google searches for 'shrek') to decrease.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Surreptitious Shrek Searches: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Stinky Smog in Claremont and Searches for our Favorite Ogre

The Journal of Eccentric Atmospheric 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 witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Unhealthy air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire and Google searches for 'shrek'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Make the title an alliteration.

Your research team used data from Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 and p < 0.01 for 2004 to 2021.

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

[[TITLE]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit

[[ABSTRACT]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit



ChatGPT:
[[TITLE]]
Surreptitious Shrek Searches: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Stinky Smog in Claremont and Searches for our Favorite Ogre

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research delves into the clandestine connection between the noxious air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the frequency of Google searches for the beloved green ogre, 'Shrek'. Our study employed data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends to explore this peculiar association, with a particular focus on the years 2004 to 2021. The statistical analysis revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 and a p-value of less than 0.01, indicating a robust and statistically significant relationship between the two variables. This study offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking insight into the strange and often unexpected ways in which environmental factors may influence online search behavior. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the dynamics of pop culture references and atmospheric conditions, shedding light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Unhealthy air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire and Google searches for 'shrek'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Surreptitious Shrek Searches: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Stinky Smog in Claremont and Searches for our Favorite Ogre

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research delves into the clandestine connection between the noxious air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the frequency of Google searches for the beloved green ogre, 'Shrek'. Our study employed data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends to explore this peculiar association, with a particular focus on the years 2004 to 2021. The statistical analysis revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 and a p-value of less than 0.01, indicating a robust and statistically significant relationship between the two variables. This study offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking insight into the strange and often unexpected ways in which environmental factors may influence online search behavior. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the dynamics of pop culture references and atmospheric conditions, shedding light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The pursuit of knowledge often leads researchers down unexpected paths, and our investigation into the peculiar relationship between air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the phenomenon of 'Shrek' searches on Google is no exception. While it may at first glance seem like a whimsical and incongruous pairing, our study presents a compelling case for a connection that is both surprising and statistically significant.

Claremont, a small and unassuming city nestled in the verdant state of New Hampshire, has unfortunately garnered attention for its less-than-fragrant air quality. This unenviable reputation has prompted concern not only among local residents but also among researchers aiming to understand the potential impact of air pollution on human behavior and cultural phenomena. Meanwhile, the inexplicable allure of the green ogre, 'Shrek', continues to permeate popular culture, captivating audiences of all ages with his unique brand of ogre-whelming charm. Thus, the intersection of these seemingly disparate elements forms the backdrop for our investigation.

Armed with data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to unravel the enigmatic ties between Claremont's stinky smog and the prevalence of 'Shrek' searches in the digital realm. The years 2004 to 2021 served as our temporal domain, encompassing a span of time during which the ogre's influence has been both robust and enduring.

In the pages that follow, we present our findings, which illuminate a compelling correlation between air quality and the frequency of 'Shrek' searches. This unlikely pairing not only showcases the inescapable influence of environmental factors on human behavior but also underscores the whimsical and serendipitous nature of our digital pursuits. As we navigate through the labyrinth of statistical analyses and methodological considerations, it becomes evident that the interplay between atmospheric conditions and pop culture references is more complex and intriguing than one may initially surmise. This study thus presents an unconventional lens through which to view the interplay of environmental conditions and the ever-evolving landscape of online search trends.

Join us as we delve into the bustling nexus of smog-choked skies and the jolly green giant, 'Shrek', for a journey that is as illuminating as it is unexpectedly delightful. In doing so, we hope to shed light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries, one ogre at a time.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Unhealthy air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire and Google searches for 'shrek'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

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

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

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Surreptitious Shrek Searches: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Stinky Smog in Claremont and Searches for our Favorite Ogre

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research delves into the clandestine connection between the noxious air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the frequency of Google searches for the beloved green ogre, 'Shrek'. Our study employed data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends to explore this peculiar association, with a particular focus on the years 2004 to 2021. The statistical analysis revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 and a p-value of less than 0.01, indicating a robust and statistically significant relationship between the two variables. This study offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking insight into the strange and often unexpected ways in which environmental factors may influence online search behavior. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the dynamics of pop culture references and atmospheric conditions, shedding light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The pursuit of knowledge often leads researchers down unexpected paths, and our investigation into the peculiar relationship between air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the phenomenon of 'Shrek' searches on Google is no exception. While it may at first glance seem like a whimsical and incongruous pairing, our study presents a compelling case for a connection that is both surprising and statistically significant.
Claremont, a small and unassuming city nestled in the verdant state of New Hampshire, has unfortunately garnered attention for its less-than-fragrant air quality. This unenviable reputation has prompted concern not only among local residents but also among researchers aiming to understand the potential impact of air pollution on human behavior and cultural phenomena. Meanwhile, the inexplicable allure of the green ogre, 'Shrek', continues to permeate popular culture, captivating audiences of all ages with his unique brand of ogre-whelming charm. Thus, the intersection of these seemingly disparate elements forms the backdrop for our investigation.
Armed with data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to unravel the enigmatic ties between Claremont's stinky smog and the prevalence of 'Shrek' searches in the digital realm. The years 2004 to 2021 served as our temporal domain, encompassing a span of time during which the ogre's influence has been both robust and enduring.
In the pages that follow, we present our findings, which illuminate a compelling correlation between air quality and the frequency of 'Shrek' searches. This unlikely pairing not only showcases the inescapable influence of environmental factors on human behavior but also underscores the whimsical and serendipitous nature of our digital pursuits. As we navigate through the labyrinth of statistical analyses and methodological considerations, it becomes evident that the interplay between atmospheric conditions and pop culture references is more complex and intriguing than one may initially surmise. This study thus presents an unconventional lens through which to view the interplay of environmental conditions and the ever-evolving landscape of online search trends.
Join us as we delve into the bustling nexus of smog-choked skies and the jolly green giant, 'Shrek', for a journey that is as illuminating as it is unexpectedly delightful. In doing so, we hope to shed light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries, one ogre at a time.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The relationship between environmental factors and online search behavior has been a subject of growing interest in recent years. Smith et al. (2018) explored the influence of air pollution on internet search trends, finding a significant association between particulate matter levels and queries related to outdoor activities. Similarly, Doe and Jones (2019) investigated the impact of temperature variations on digital information seeking, revealing a connection between warmer temperatures and searches for tropical vacation destinations.

Moving beyond the realm of environmental science, the literature on popular culture and societal trends offers intriguing insights into the impact of iconic figures on public consciousness. In "Pop Culture Phenomena in the Digital Age" (Laurent, 2016), the author delves into the pervasive influence of beloved fictional characters on online discourse, highlighting the enduring appeal of characters like 'Shrek' and their ability to capture the imagination of internet users across demographic groups.

Expanding our scope to include works of fiction, the seminal "Ogre Dynamics: Exploring the Influence of Scent and Sound on Cultural Phenomena" (Hernandez, 2014) presents a theoretical framework for understanding the interplay of sensory stimuli and narrative elements in the context of ogre-related media. This multidisciplinary study draws connections between atmospheric conditions, such as foul odors, and the portrayal of ogre characters in literary and cinematic works, offering a whimsical yet thought-provoking perspective on the interaction between environmental cues and cultural representations.

As we maneuver through the tangled underbrush of academic literature, it becomes apparent that the association between Claremont's ambient air and 'Shrek' searches occupies a unique niche at the intersection of environmental monitoring and popular culture scholarship. This unconventional terrain beckons us to pursue a path less traveled, one that promises both scholarly rigor and a touch of mirth. And so, with a twinkle in our eyes and a quest for the unexpected, we embark on this scholarly odyssey, accompanied by the irrepressible spirit of the enigmatic green ogre himself.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Unhealthy air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire and Google searches for 'shrek'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends . You used data from 2004 to 2021

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

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Surreptitious Shrek Searches: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Stinky Smog in Claremont and Searches for our Favorite Ogre

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research delves into the clandestine connection between the noxious air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the frequency of Google searches for the beloved green ogre, 'Shrek'. Our study employed data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends to explore this peculiar association, with a particular focus on the years 2004 to 2021. The statistical analysis revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 and a p-value of less than 0.01, indicating a robust and statistically significant relationship between the two variables. This study offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking insight into the strange and often unexpected ways in which environmental factors may influence online search behavior. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the dynamics of pop culture references and atmospheric conditions, shedding light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The pursuit of knowledge often leads researchers down unexpected paths, and our investigation into the peculiar relationship between air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the phenomenon of 'Shrek' searches on Google is no exception. While it may at first glance seem like a whimsical and incongruous pairing, our study presents a compelling case for a connection that is both surprising and statistically significant.
Claremont, a small and unassuming city nestled in the verdant state of New Hampshire, has unfortunately garnered attention for its less-than-fragrant air quality. This unenviable reputation has prompted concern not only among local residents but also among researchers aiming to understand the potential impact of air pollution on human behavior and cultural phenomena. Meanwhile, the inexplicable allure of the green ogre, 'Shrek', continues to permeate popular culture, captivating audiences of all ages with his unique brand of ogre-whelming charm. Thus, the intersection of these seemingly disparate elements forms the backdrop for our investigation.
Armed with data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to unravel the enigmatic ties between Claremont's stinky smog and the prevalence of 'Shrek' searches in the digital realm. The years 2004 to 2021 served as our temporal domain, encompassing a span of time during which the ogre's influence has been both robust and enduring.
In the pages that follow, we present our findings, which illuminate a compelling correlation between air quality and the frequency of 'Shrek' searches. This unlikely pairing not only showcases the inescapable influence of environmental factors on human behavior but also underscores the whimsical and serendipitous nature of our digital pursuits. As we navigate through the labyrinth of statistical analyses and methodological considerations, it becomes evident that the interplay between atmospheric conditions and pop culture references is more complex and intriguing than one may initially surmise. This study thus presents an unconventional lens through which to view the interplay of environmental conditions and the ever-evolving landscape of online search trends.
Join us as we delve into the bustling nexus of smog-choked skies and the jolly green giant, 'Shrek', for a journey that is as illuminating as it is unexpectedly delightful. In doing so, we hope to shed light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries, one ogre at a time.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To untangle the enigmatic relationship between the malodorous air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the cyber pursuit of the endearing ogre, 'Shrek', our research team embarked on a methodological odyssey of both data collection and statistical analyses. Our approach sought to encompass a wide array of sources and methodologies, mirroring the breadth of the digital landscape and the complexities of environmental data.

First, we amassed air quality data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), encompassing measures of atmospheric pollutants such as ozone, particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. These data provided a comprehensive overview of the intimate nuances of Claremont's atmospheric composition, allowing us to form a detailed portrait of the olfactory challenges faced by its residents. Simultaneously, our foray into the digital domain involved harnessing the power of Google Trends, capturing the frequency and relative interest in 'Shrek' searches over the same timeframe. This approach enabled us to distill the ebb and flow of online fascination with the beloved ogre, encompassing queries related to his cinematic escapades, endearing quirks, and perhaps even his penchant for onion-laden habitats.

With data in hand, we set about navigating the treacherous terrain of statistical analyses. Employing robust tools such as correlation coefficients and regression models, we sought to illuminate the cryptic interplay between Claremont's atmospheric woes and the cyber sleuthing of 'Shrek' enthusiasts. Our statistical voyage led us to the shores of a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274, signifying a resounding resonance between unhealthy air quality and the fervent quest for all things ogre-related on Google. Furthermore, our expedition yielded a p-value of less than 0.01, underscoring the resolute significance of this association and obviating any notion of an ogre-hasty generalization.

In light of the data's unassuming guise, we applied a variety of robust statistical tests to ensure the veracity of our findings. Sensitivity analyses, bootstrapping procedures, and Monte Carlo simulations were enmeshed in a methodological tapestry, each thread serving to fortify the strength of our conclusions. Through such rigorous statistical craftsmanship, we were able to plumb the depths of our data, unearthing the subtle yet compelling patterns that underpin the clandestine relationship between noxious air and ogre-driven queries.

Yet, amidst our rigorous pursuit of scientific inquiry, we remained acutely aware of the whimsical nature of our subject matter. Our journey into the juncture of stinky smog and Shrek searches was punctuated by the occasional chuckle at the seemingly incongruous pairing. As such, our methodology embodies the harmonious convergence of meticulous scientific rigor and the spirited whimsy of ogre-arching investigation, inviting readers to embark on a scholarly sojourn that is as enlightening as it is unexpectedly delightful.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Unhealthy air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire and Google searches for 'shrek'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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

For the time period 2004 to 2021, you found a correlation 0.8275274, r-squared of 0.6848017, 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]]
Surreptitious Shrek Searches: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Stinky Smog in Claremont and Searches for our Favorite Ogre

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research delves into the clandestine connection between the noxious air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the frequency of Google searches for the beloved green ogre, 'Shrek'. Our study employed data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends to explore this peculiar association, with a particular focus on the years 2004 to 2021. The statistical analysis revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 and a p-value of less than 0.01, indicating a robust and statistically significant relationship between the two variables. This study offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking insight into the strange and often unexpected ways in which environmental factors may influence online search behavior. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the dynamics of pop culture references and atmospheric conditions, shedding light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The pursuit of knowledge often leads researchers down unexpected paths, and our investigation into the peculiar relationship between air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the phenomenon of 'Shrek' searches on Google is no exception. While it may at first glance seem like a whimsical and incongruous pairing, our study presents a compelling case for a connection that is both surprising and statistically significant.
Claremont, a small and unassuming city nestled in the verdant state of New Hampshire, has unfortunately garnered attention for its less-than-fragrant air quality. This unenviable reputation has prompted concern not only among local residents but also among researchers aiming to understand the potential impact of air pollution on human behavior and cultural phenomena. Meanwhile, the inexplicable allure of the green ogre, 'Shrek', continues to permeate popular culture, captivating audiences of all ages with his unique brand of ogre-whelming charm. Thus, the intersection of these seemingly disparate elements forms the backdrop for our investigation.
Armed with data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to unravel the enigmatic ties between Claremont's stinky smog and the prevalence of 'Shrek' searches in the digital realm. The years 2004 to 2021 served as our temporal domain, encompassing a span of time during which the ogre's influence has been both robust and enduring.
In the pages that follow, we present our findings, which illuminate a compelling correlation between air quality and the frequency of 'Shrek' searches. This unlikely pairing not only showcases the inescapable influence of environmental factors on human behavior but also underscores the whimsical and serendipitous nature of our digital pursuits. As we navigate through the labyrinth of statistical analyses and methodological considerations, it becomes evident that the interplay between atmospheric conditions and pop culture references is more complex and intriguing than one may initially surmise. This study thus presents an unconventional lens through which to view the interplay of environmental conditions and the ever-evolving landscape of online search trends.
Join us as we delve into the bustling nexus of smog-choked skies and the jolly green giant, 'Shrek', for a journey that is as illuminating as it is unexpectedly delightful. In doing so, we hope to shed light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries, one ogre at a time.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The statistical analysis yielded a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 (p < 0.01) and an r-squared value of 0.6848017, indicating a robust and statistically significant relationship between unhealthy air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the frequency of Google searches for 'Shrek'. The positive correlation coefficient suggests that as the air quality in Claremont deteriorated, there was a corresponding increase in searches for the beloved green ogre. It seems that when the air gets smoggy, the internet gets ogrewhelmed!

Figure 1 displays a scatterplot illustrating this strong correlation between air quality and 'Shrek' searches, showcasing the undeniable link between the two variables. The plot resembles a green ogre emerging from the haze of air pollution, further emphasizing the symbiotic nature of this unusual relationship. It seems that even in the digital realm, 'Shrek' emerges from the mist of environmental conditions, captivating audiences amidst the fumes of Claremont's less-than-fresh air.

The robustness and statistical significance of this correlation prompt us to reflect on the intricate and often unexpected ways in which environmental factors may shape our online behaviors. While we may be accustomed to considering the impact of air pollution on physical health, our findings offer a whimsical yet thought-provoking insight into its potential influence on internet search behavior. It appears that the stinky smog in Claremont has an unexpected companion in the form of a lovable yet reclusive ogre, inviting further examination of the interplay between atmospheric conditions and cultural phenomena.

This study sheds light on the need to explore the somewhat unorthodox elements that may influence our digital pursuits. The whimsical nature of this relationship serves as a reminder of the delightful and sometimes peculiar influences that can permeate our online interactions, evoking a chuckle or a raised eyebrow as we navigate through the labyrinth of statistical analyses.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Unhealthy air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire and Google searches for 'shrek'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

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

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

[[TITLE]]
Surreptitious Shrek Searches: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Stinky Smog in Claremont and Searches for our Favorite Ogre

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research delves into the clandestine connection between the noxious air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the frequency of Google searches for the beloved green ogre, 'Shrek'. Our study employed data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends to explore this peculiar association, with a particular focus on the years 2004 to 2021. The statistical analysis revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 and a p-value of less than 0.01, indicating a robust and statistically significant relationship between the two variables. This study offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking insight into the strange and often unexpected ways in which environmental factors may influence online search behavior. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the dynamics of pop culture references and atmospheric conditions, shedding light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The relationship between environmental factors and online search behavior has been a subject of growing interest in recent years. Smith et al. (2018) explored the influence of air pollution on internet search trends, finding a significant association between particulate matter levels and queries related to outdoor activities. Similarly, Doe and Jones (2019) investigated the impact of temperature variations on digital information seeking, revealing a connection between warmer temperatures and searches for tropical vacation destinations.
Moving beyond the realm of environmental science, the literature on popular culture and societal trends offers intriguing insights into the impact of iconic figures on public consciousness. In "Pop Culture Phenomena in the Digital Age" (Laurent, 2016), the author delves into the pervasive influence of beloved fictional characters on online discourse, highlighting the enduring appeal of characters like 'Shrek' and their ability to capture the imagination of internet users across demographic groups.
Expanding our scope to include works of fiction, the seminal "Ogre Dynamics: Exploring the Influence of Scent and Sound on Cultural Phenomena" (Hernandez, 2014) presents a theoretical framework for understanding the interplay of sensory stimuli and narrative elements in the context of ogre-related media. This multidisciplinary study draws connections between atmospheric conditions, such as foul odors, and the portrayal of ogre characters in literary and cinematic works, offering a whimsical yet thought-provoking perspective on the interaction between environmental cues and cultural representations.
As we maneuver through the tangled underbrush of academic literature, it becomes apparent that the association between Claremont's ambient air and 'Shrek' searches occupies a unique niche at the intersection of environmental monitoring and popular culture scholarship. This unconventional terrain beckons us to pursue a path less traveled, one that promises both scholarly rigor and a touch of mirth. And so, with a twinkle in our eyes and a quest for the unexpected, we embark on this scholarly odyssey, accompanied by the irrepressible spirit of the enigmatic green ogre himself.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis yielded a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 (p < 0.01) and an r-squared value of 0.6848017, indicating a robust and statistically significant relationship between unhealthy air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the frequency of Google searches for 'Shrek'. The positive correlation coefficient suggests that as the air quality in Claremont deteriorated, there was a corresponding increase in searches for the beloved green ogre. It seems that when the air gets smoggy, the internet gets ogrewhelmed!
Figure 1 displays a scatterplot illustrating this strong correlation between air quality and 'Shrek' searches, showcasing the undeniable link between the two variables. The plot resembles a green ogre emerging from the haze of air pollution, further emphasizing the symbiotic nature of this unusual relationship. It seems that even in the digital realm, 'Shrek' emerges from the mist of environmental conditions, captivating audiences amidst the fumes of Claremont's less-than-fresh air.
The robustness and statistical significance of this correlation prompt us to reflect on the intricate and often unexpected ways in which environmental factors may shape our online behaviors. While we may be accustomed to considering the impact of air pollution on physical health, our findings offer a whimsical yet thought-provoking insight into its potential influence on internet search behavior. It appears that the stinky smog in Claremont has an unexpected companion in the form of a lovable yet reclusive ogre, inviting further examination of the interplay between atmospheric conditions and cultural phenomena.
This study sheds light on the need to explore the somewhat unorthodox elements that may influence our digital pursuits. The whimsical nature of this relationship serves as a reminder of the delightful and sometimes peculiar influences that can permeate our online interactions, evoking a chuckle or a raised eyebrow as we navigate through the labyrinth of statistical analyses.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The findings of our study have illuminated a curious and previously unexplored relationship between the ambient air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire and the frequency of Google searches for the renowned green ogre, 'Shrek'. Our statistical analysis, yielding a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 and a p-value of less than 0.01, has unequivocally validated the robust and statistically significant connection between these seemingly disparate variables. This unexpected association underscores the intricate interplay between environmental conditions and online search behavior, expanding our understanding of the myriad influences that shape our digital interactions.

Drawing on prior research, which has revealed the impact of environmental factors on internet search trends, such as the influence of air pollution on queries related to outdoor activities, our study extends this line of inquiry to a whimsical yet thought-provoking realm. The literature on the influence of iconic figures on public consciousness has paved the way for our investigation into the enduring appeal of characters like 'Shrek', illustrating their capacity to captivate the imagination of internet users across diverse demographic groups. Moreover, the theoretical framework presented in "Ogre Dynamics: Exploring the Influence of Scent and Sound on Cultural Phenomena" (Hernandez, 2014) has provided a lens through which to understand the interplay of sensory stimuli and narrative elements in the context of ogre-related media, underscoring the multidimensional nature of our research pursuit.

In light of these prior investigations, our results have not only corroborated but also extended the existing knowledge base, offering a compelling testament to the symbiotic relationship between environmental conditions and the prevalence of 'Shrek' searches. As the air quality in Claremont deteriorated, there was a corresponding surge in internet queries for the endearing green ogre, suggesting a peculiar yet undeniable linkage between the two seemingly unrelated domains. Our scatterplot, with its whimsical resemblance to a green ogre emerging from the haze of air pollution, embodies the symbiotic nature of this unique association, underscoring the whimsical charm that pervades our findings.

As we delve deeper into the implications of this research, it becomes evident that the stinky smog in Claremont has assumed an unexpected counterpart in the digital realm, materializing as a lovable yet elusive ogre that captures the attention of internet users amidst the fumes of air pollution. This peculiar pairing evokes a sense of amusement and wonder, prompting us to reflect on the delightful and unexpected influences that may permeate our online interactions. Our findings offer a window into the endearing quirks of human behavior, inviting further exploration of the whimsical elements that shape our digital pursuits.

In summary, our study has shed light on the unorthodox yet undeniably intriguing relationship between unhealthy air quality in Claremont and the prevalence of 'Shrek' searches, emphasizing the need to consider the delightful and at times whimsical influences that guide our online endeavors. With this scholarly odyssey, we bring to the fore the mirthful spirit of the enigmatic green ogre, urging continued exploration of the multifaceted dynamics that underpin digital interactions.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Unhealthy air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire and Google searches for 'shrek'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
Surreptitious Shrek Searches: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Stinky Smog in Claremont and Searches for our Favorite Ogre

[[ABSTRACT]]
This research delves into the clandestine connection between the noxious air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the frequency of Google searches for the beloved green ogre, 'Shrek'. Our study employed data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends to explore this peculiar association, with a particular focus on the years 2004 to 2021. The statistical analysis revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 and a p-value of less than 0.01, indicating a robust and statistically significant relationship between the two variables. This study offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking insight into the strange and often unexpected ways in which environmental factors may influence online search behavior. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the dynamics of pop culture references and atmospheric conditions, shedding light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The pursuit of knowledge often leads researchers down unexpected paths, and our investigation into the peculiar relationship between air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the phenomenon of 'Shrek' searches on Google is no exception. While it may at first glance seem like a whimsical and incongruous pairing, our study presents a compelling case for a connection that is both surprising and statistically significant.
Claremont, a small and unassuming city nestled in the verdant state of New Hampshire, has unfortunately garnered attention for its less-than-fragrant air quality. This unenviable reputation has prompted concern not only among local residents but also among researchers aiming to understand the potential impact of air pollution on human behavior and cultural phenomena. Meanwhile, the inexplicable allure of the green ogre, 'Shrek', continues to permeate popular culture, captivating audiences of all ages with his unique brand of ogre-whelming charm. Thus, the intersection of these seemingly disparate elements forms the backdrop for our investigation.
Armed with data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to unravel the enigmatic ties between Claremont's stinky smog and the prevalence of 'Shrek' searches in the digital realm. The years 2004 to 2021 served as our temporal domain, encompassing a span of time during which the ogre's influence has been both robust and enduring.
In the pages that follow, we present our findings, which illuminate a compelling correlation between air quality and the frequency of 'Shrek' searches. This unlikely pairing not only showcases the inescapable influence of environmental factors on human behavior but also underscores the whimsical and serendipitous nature of our digital pursuits. As we navigate through the labyrinth of statistical analyses and methodological considerations, it becomes evident that the interplay between atmospheric conditions and pop culture references is more complex and intriguing than one may initially surmise. This study thus presents an unconventional lens through which to view the interplay of environmental conditions and the ever-evolving landscape of online search trends.
Join us as we delve into the bustling nexus of smog-choked skies and the jolly green giant, 'Shrek', for a journey that is as illuminating as it is unexpectedly delightful. In doing so, we hope to shed light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries, one ogre at a time.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis yielded a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 (p < 0.01) and an r-squared value of 0.6848017, indicating a robust and statistically significant relationship between unhealthy air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the frequency of Google searches for 'Shrek'. The positive correlation coefficient suggests that as the air quality in Claremont deteriorated, there was a corresponding increase in searches for the beloved green ogre. It seems that when the air gets smoggy, the internet gets ogrewhelmed!
Figure 1 displays a scatterplot illustrating this strong correlation between air quality and 'Shrek' searches, showcasing the undeniable link between the two variables. The plot resembles a green ogre emerging from the haze of air pollution, further emphasizing the symbiotic nature of this unusual relationship. It seems that even in the digital realm, 'Shrek' emerges from the mist of environmental conditions, captivating audiences amidst the fumes of Claremont's less-than-fresh air.
The robustness and statistical significance of this correlation prompt us to reflect on the intricate and often unexpected ways in which environmental factors may shape our online behaviors. While we may be accustomed to considering the impact of air pollution on physical health, our findings offer a whimsical yet thought-provoking insight into its potential influence on internet search behavior. It appears that the stinky smog in Claremont has an unexpected companion in the form of a lovable yet reclusive ogre, inviting further examination of the interplay between atmospheric conditions and cultural phenomena.
This study sheds light on the need to explore the somewhat unorthodox elements that may influence our digital pursuits. The whimsical nature of this relationship serves as a reminder of the delightful and sometimes peculiar influences that can permeate our online interactions, evoking a chuckle or a raised eyebrow as we navigate through the labyrinth of statistical analyses.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conducting this research, we have unearthed a most peculiar and unexpected association between the unhealthy air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the prevalence of Google searches for the endearing green ogre, 'Shrek'. With a resounding correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 (p < 0.01) and an r-squared value of 0.6848017, it is evident that as the air quality in Claremont worsened, the quest for 'Shrek' intensified, culminating in a mutually symbiotic relationship that titillates the intellect and tickles the fancy. Our findings are as robust as they are surprising, leaving one to ponder the whimsical dance of atmospheric conditions and digital inquisitiveness. The scatterplot in Figure 1, resembling an ogre emerging from the mist, provides a visual metaphor for the delightful interplay between air pollution and online ogre pursuits.

The implications of this research are manifold, delving into the enigmatic ways in which environmental factors may shape our online behaviors and cultural proclivities. This unexpected kinship between smog and Shrek is but a mere glimpse into the convoluted labyrinth of internet searches, where the riddle of the human mind meets the capricious influences of the surrounding world. As we navigate the fumes of Claremont and the digital realm, we are reminded that even in the most unlikely of pairings, statistical significance prevails, and the allure of quirky correlations never ceases to amuse and bemuse.

Our study underscores the paramount importance of further exploration into the whimsical and often inexplicable connections that permeate our online interactions. However, in light of the unequivocal and whimsical nature of our findings, we contend that no further research is needed in this area. After all, sometimes, mysteries are best left to serenade us with their delightful enigma, much like the unexpected allure of 'Shrek' amidst the smog-choked skies of Claremont.


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 Surreptitious Shrek Searches: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Stinky Smog in Claremont and Searches for our Favorite Ogre. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Eccentric Atmospheric 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 Surreptitious Shrek Searches: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Stinky Smog in Claremont and Searches for our Favorite Ogre. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Institute for Symbiotic Environmental Studies (ISES)


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 Surreptitious Shrek Searches: The Symbiotic Relationship Between Stinky Smog in Claremont and Searches for our Favorite Ogre with an abstract of This research delves into the clandestine connection between the noxious air quality in Claremont, New Hampshire, and the frequency of Google searches for the beloved green ogre, 'Shrek'. Our study employed data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Google Trends to explore this peculiar association, with a particular focus on the years 2004 to 2021. The statistical analysis revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8275274 and a p-value of less than 0.01, indicating a robust and statistically significant relationship between the two variables. This study offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking insight into the strange and often unexpected ways in which environmental factors may influence online search behavior. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the dynamics of pop culture references and atmospheric conditions, shedding light on the delightful and somewhat surprising influences that may shape our internet queries.

ChatGPT:

Shrek, Claremont New Hampshire, air quality, environmental factors, Google searches, correlation coefficient, statistical analysis, atmospheric conditions, pop culture references, internet queries

*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 Claremont, New Hampshire
Detailed data title: Percentage of days with air quality at 'unhealthy for sensitive groups' or worse in Claremont-Lebanon, NH-VT
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
See what else correlates with Air pollution in Claremont, New Hampshire

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

See what else correlates with Google searches for 'shrek'

Correlation r = 0.8275274 (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 = 0.6848017 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 68.5% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Google searches for 'shrek') is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Air pollution in Claremont, New Hampshire) over the 18 years from 2004 through 2021.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 2.3E-5. 0.0000225658243368783450000000
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 0.83 in 0.0023% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 44,315 random variables You don't actually need 44 thousand variables to find a correlation like this one. 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.

Just to be clear: I'm being completely transparent about the calculations. There is no math trickery. This is just how statistics shakes out when you calculate hundreds of millions of random correlations.
with the same 17 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 17 because we have two variables measured over a period of 18 years. It's just the number of years minus ( the number of variables minus one ), which in this case simplifies to the number of years minus one.
you would randomly expect to find a correlation as strong as this one.

[ 0.59, 0.93 ] 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.
200420052006200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021
Air pollution in Claremont, New Hampshire (Bad air quality days)0.01923080.01104970.005524860.0219780.00274725000000.002739730000000.00273973
Google searches for 'shrek' (Rel. search volume)3813.91679.0833325.33339.416678.1666719.333310.66679.166678.333339.916679.083338.833338.59.4166710.166710.7511




Why this works

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




Try it yourself

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([0.0192308,0.0110497,0.00552486,0.021978,0.00274725,0,0,0,0,0,0.00273973,0,0,0,0,0,0,0.00273973,])
array_2 = np.array([38,13.9167,9.08333,25.3333,9.41667,8.16667,19.3333,10.6667,9.16667,8.33333,9.91667,9.08333,8.83333,8.5,9.41667,10.1667,10.75,11,])
array_1_name = "Air pollution in Claremont, New Hampshire"
array_2_name = "Google searches for 'shrek'"

# 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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Correlation ID: 1110 · Black Variable ID: 21516 · Red Variable ID: 1480
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