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Spurious correlation #2,670 · 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 Richmond, Virginia and the second variable is Viewership count for Days of Our Lives.  The chart goes from 1980 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

As the air cleared, residents were suddenly able to step outside and find other forms of entertainment besides watching soap operas. Those clean, crisp air molecules must have carried away the urge to keep up with the dramatic lives of Salem's residents.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: An image that looks like it is a scene from a Disney movie where the skies over Richmond, Virginia are depicted clearing up from reduced air pollution. The residents are seen opening their windows and taking leisurely strolls outdoors, engaging in more meaningful activities. The deserted living rooms reflect the plummeting viewership count for the soap opera "Days of Our Lives." 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 Richmond, Virginia and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. 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: Futuristic An image that looks like it is a scene from A Disney Movie A scene from Skyrim A scene from Skyrim Art nouveau
ChatGPT: An image that looks like it is a scene from A Disney Movie

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 Richmond, Virginia and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives, in the following situation: As air pollution decreased in Richmond, Virginia, the residents suddenly found themselves with clearer minds, leading them to realize that watching Days of Our Lives was a complete waste of time, causing the viewership count to plummet.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: As the skies over Richmond, Virginia cleared up from reduced air pollution, the residents found themselves with clearer minds. They opened their windows to let in the fresh air, and instead of tuning into Days of Our Lives, they took leisurely strolls outdoors and engaged in more meaningful activities. The deserted living rooms reflected the plummeting viewership count for the soap opera.

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: [ An image that looks like it is a scene from A Disney Movie ] and depicting this scene: As the skies over Richmond, Virginia cleared up from reduced air pollution, the residents found themselves with clearer minds. They opened their windows to let in the fresh air, and instead of tuning into Days of Our Lives, they took leisurely strolls outdoors and engaged in more meaningful activities. The deserted living rooms reflected the plummeting viewership count for the soap opera. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: An image that looks like it is a scene from a Disney movie where the skies over Richmond, Virginia are depicted clearing up from reduced air pollution. The residents are seen opening their windows and taking leisurely strolls outdoors, engaging in more meaningful activities. The deserted living rooms reflect the plummeting viewership count for the soap opera "Days of Our Lives."

*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 Richmond, Virginia caused Viewership count for Days of Our Lives to decrease. Add a funny one-liner at the end.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Air Pollution: A Soap Opera for Days of Our Lives Viewership in Richmond, Virginia

Journal of Environmental Psychology and Pop Culture

Jan 2024

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




Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a 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 Air pollution in Richmond, Virginia and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

Your research team used data from Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and p < 0.01 for 1980 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]]
"Air Pollution: A Soap Opera for Days of Our Lives Viewership in Richmond, Virginia"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the curious link between air pollution levels in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the iconic soap opera "Days of Our Lives." Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, we performed a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 1980 to 2021. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a statistically significant relationship between these seemingly disparate variables. The unexpected implications of our results may leave some scratching their heads, but one thing is clear: the drama of air pollution can certainly impact the dramas on our screens. This research sheds light on the enigmatic connection between environmental factors and entertainment preferences, highlighting the need for further investigation into the complex interplay between atmospheric conditions and audience behavior.


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 Air pollution in Richmond, Virginia and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. 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]]
"Air Pollution: A Soap Opera for Days of Our Lives Viewership in Richmond, Virginia"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the curious link between air pollution levels in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the iconic soap opera "Days of Our Lives." Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, we performed a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 1980 to 2021. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a statistically significant relationship between these seemingly disparate variables. The unexpected implications of our results may leave some scratching their heads, but one thing is clear: the drama of air pollution can certainly impact the dramas on our screens. This research sheds light on the enigmatic connection between environmental factors and entertainment preferences, highlighting the need for further investigation into the complex interplay between atmospheric conditions and audience behavior.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The relationship between air pollution and human health outcomes has been extensively studied in the fields of public health and environmental science. However, a less explored area is the potential impact of air pollution on cultural phenomena and entertainment preferences. In this study, we delve into the unexpected and somewhat whimsical connection between air pollution levels in the city of Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera "Days of Our Lives." The bustling metropolis of Richmond, with its rich history and diverse population, provides an intriguing setting for investigating this peculiar correlation. By analyzing decades of data, we aim to shed light on the surprising interplay between atmospheric conditions and television consumption.

As scholars and researchers, we are always eager to uncover new connections and unexpected relationships between seemingly unrelated variables. Unraveling the statistical tapestry that ties air quality to soap opera viewership may seem peculiar at first glance, but the complexities of human behavior often yield fascinating discoveries when approached with an open mind and a keen eye for patterns. While our investigation may raise eyebrows and elicit a few chuckles, the pursuit of knowledge often leads us down unexpected paths, and the journey itself can be as enlightening as the destination.

This study endeavors to bridge the gap between the scientific study of air pollution and the lighthearted world of daytime television dramas. The correlation discovered between air pollution levels and the popularity of "Days of Our Lives" in Richmond, Virginia, compels us to consider the far-reaching implications of environmental factors on cultural consumption. It is a reminder that even the most seemingly inconsequential aspects of our environment may leave an indelible mark on our daily choices and interactions. Our investigation, while certainly novel in its focus, stands as a testament to the continuing evolution of interdisciplinary inquiry, where the line between the serious and the unexpected can often blur in intriguing ways.

Join us as we embark on a journey to unravel the enigmatic relationship between air pollution and the soap opera saga of "Days of Our Lives." The results of our study may hold unforeseen implications and open the door to new avenues of research, proving once again that the world of science is full of surprises and, dare we say, a dash of theatrical flair.


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 Air pollution in Richmond, Virginia and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. 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 devolve ever further, and mention something completely ridiculous, like you conducted literature review by reading the backs of shampoo bottles.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Air Pollution: A Soap Opera for Days of Our Lives Viewership in Richmond, Virginia"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the curious link between air pollution levels in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the iconic soap opera "Days of Our Lives." Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, we performed a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 1980 to 2021. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a statistically significant relationship between these seemingly disparate variables. The unexpected implications of our results may leave some scratching their heads, but one thing is clear: the drama of air pollution can certainly impact the dramas on our screens. This research sheds light on the enigmatic connection between environmental factors and entertainment preferences, highlighting the need for further investigation into the complex interplay between atmospheric conditions and audience behavior.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The relationship between air pollution and human health outcomes has been extensively studied in the fields of public health and environmental science. However, a less explored area is the potential impact of air pollution on cultural phenomena and entertainment preferences. In this study, we delve into the unexpected and somewhat whimsical connection between air pollution levels in the city of Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera "Days of Our Lives." The bustling metropolis of Richmond, with its rich history and diverse population, provides an intriguing setting for investigating this peculiar correlation. By analyzing decades of data, we aim to shed light on the surprising interplay between atmospheric conditions and television consumption.
As scholars and researchers, we are always eager to uncover new connections and unexpected relationships between seemingly unrelated variables. Unraveling the statistical tapestry that ties air quality to soap opera viewership may seem peculiar at first glance, but the complexities of human behavior often yield fascinating discoveries when approached with an open mind and a keen eye for patterns. While our investigation may raise eyebrows and elicit a few chuckles, the pursuit of knowledge often leads us down unexpected paths, and the journey itself can be as enlightening as the destination.
This study endeavors to bridge the gap between the scientific study of air pollution and the lighthearted world of daytime television dramas. The correlation discovered between air pollution levels and the popularity of "Days of Our Lives" in Richmond, Virginia, compels us to consider the far-reaching implications of environmental factors on cultural consumption. It is a reminder that even the most seemingly inconsequential aspects of our environment may leave an indelible mark on our daily choices and interactions. Our investigation, while certainly novel in its focus, stands as a testament to the continuing evolution of interdisciplinary inquiry, where the line between the serious and the unexpected can often blur in intriguing ways.
Join us as we embark on a journey to unravel the enigmatic relationship between air pollution and the soap opera saga of "Days of Our Lives." The results of our study may hold unforeseen implications and open the door to new avenues of research, proving once again that the world of science is full of surprises and, dare we say, a dash of theatrical flair.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

In "The Impact of Air Pollution on Human Health," Smith et al. demonstrate the well-established relationship between air pollution and adverse health effects, highlighting the importance of monitoring and mitigating atmospheric pollutants. Similarly, Doe and Jones, in "Environmental Factors and Human Behavior," explore the influence of environmental conditions on human decision-making and behavior, offering valuable insights into the interconnectedness of external stimuli and societal patterns.

Turning to the realm of popular culture, "The Influence of Media on Public Perception," by Blackwell and Brown, delves into the intricate dynamics between media consumption and audience attitudes, providing a broad framework for understanding the nuanced interactions between entertainment content and viewer preferences. Meanwhile, "Television and Social Behavior," a seminal work by Robinson and Smith, sheds light on the multifaceted relationship between television programming and social dynamics, underscoring the pervasive impact of visual storytelling on audience engagement and collective consciousness. These scholarly works form the backdrop for our exploration of the unexpected correlation between air pollution in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for "Days of Our Lives."

Transitioning from non-fiction to fiction, the world of literature offers a diverse array of perspectives on human experiences and societal reflections. "The Grapes of Wrath" by John Steinbeck, while not directly related to our investigation, poignantly captures the struggles of individuals amidst environmental hardships, reminding us of the enduring influence of atmospheric conditions on human narratives. In a similar vein, the timeless classic "Wuthering Heights" by Emily Brontë, though centered on romantic turmoil, intricately weaves the atmospheric elements of the Yorkshire moors into the emotional tapestry of its characters, inviting contemplation on the atmospheric backdrop of human dramas.

Venturing further afield, we could not overlook the compelling narratives found in the works of detective fiction. The intricate plots of Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express" and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "Sherlock Holmes" series, while far removed from our research focus, offer thrilling examples of the captivating drama that unfolds amidst seemingly unrelated elements—much like the unexpected correlation we seek to unravel.

As we expand our purview to unexpected sources, it is worth noting that the authors, in pursuit of comprehensive research, have also gleaned insights from alternative avenues of inquiry. During the course of this investigation, the researchers stumbled upon intriguing perspectives printed on the backs of shampoo bottles, offering whimsical musings and peculiar observations on the interplay of soap and suds, which, in a rather serendipitous manner, seemed oddly reminiscent of the narrative twists and sudsy drama characteristic of "Days of Our Lives." While not scientific in nature, these unorthodox sources served as a source of unexpected amusement and imaginative inspiration, reminding us that scholarly pursuits can come from the most unexpected places.


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 Air pollution in Richmond, Virginia and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. 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 Wikipedia . You used data from 1980 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]]
"Air Pollution: A Soap Opera for Days of Our Lives Viewership in Richmond, Virginia"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the curious link between air pollution levels in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the iconic soap opera "Days of Our Lives." Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, we performed a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 1980 to 2021. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a statistically significant relationship between these seemingly disparate variables. The unexpected implications of our results may leave some scratching their heads, but one thing is clear: the drama of air pollution can certainly impact the dramas on our screens. This research sheds light on the enigmatic connection between environmental factors and entertainment preferences, highlighting the need for further investigation into the complex interplay between atmospheric conditions and audience behavior.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The relationship between air pollution and human health outcomes has been extensively studied in the fields of public health and environmental science. However, a less explored area is the potential impact of air pollution on cultural phenomena and entertainment preferences. In this study, we delve into the unexpected and somewhat whimsical connection between air pollution levels in the city of Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera "Days of Our Lives." The bustling metropolis of Richmond, with its rich history and diverse population, provides an intriguing setting for investigating this peculiar correlation. By analyzing decades of data, we aim to shed light on the surprising interplay between atmospheric conditions and television consumption.
As scholars and researchers, we are always eager to uncover new connections and unexpected relationships between seemingly unrelated variables. Unraveling the statistical tapestry that ties air quality to soap opera viewership may seem peculiar at first glance, but the complexities of human behavior often yield fascinating discoveries when approached with an open mind and a keen eye for patterns. While our investigation may raise eyebrows and elicit a few chuckles, the pursuit of knowledge often leads us down unexpected paths, and the journey itself can be as enlightening as the destination.
This study endeavors to bridge the gap between the scientific study of air pollution and the lighthearted world of daytime television dramas. The correlation discovered between air pollution levels and the popularity of "Days of Our Lives" in Richmond, Virginia, compels us to consider the far-reaching implications of environmental factors on cultural consumption. It is a reminder that even the most seemingly inconsequential aspects of our environment may leave an indelible mark on our daily choices and interactions. Our investigation, while certainly novel in its focus, stands as a testament to the continuing evolution of interdisciplinary inquiry, where the line between the serious and the unexpected can often blur in intriguing ways.
Join us as we embark on a journey to unravel the enigmatic relationship between air pollution and the soap opera saga of "Days of Our Lives." The results of our study may hold unforeseen implications and open the door to new avenues of research, proving once again that the world of science is full of surprises and, dare we say, a dash of theatrical flair.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To investigate the perplexing association between air pollution and soap opera viewership, our research team embarked on a methodological odyssey, navigating through the labyrinth of data sources and statistical analyses. Our data collection process commenced by harnessing the vast reservoir of information available from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). We procured air quality indices, encompassing pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O3), which are essential components for exploring the atmospheric milieu of Richmond, Virginia.

To complement our enthralling EPA expedition, we relied on the prodigious compendium of knowledge known as Wikipedia. This digital repository provided historical viewership data for the cherished melodrama, "Days of Our Lives," spanning the prodigious timeframe from 1980 to 2021. With these datasets in tow, we embarked on a thrilling quest to unravel the potential nexus between air pollution and the captivation of daytime television soap operas in the heart of Richmond.

Our analytical journey commenced with the application of a multitude of statistical tools, including Pearson's correlation coefficient and linear regression analysis, which served as the navigational compass for our rigorous exploration. By aligning these sophisticated statistical instruments with our robust datasets, we aspired to unearth any whisper of coherence between air pollutants and the ebb and flow of viewership for "Days of Our Lives."

Furthermore, we applied time series analysis to comprehend the temporal dynamics of air pollution and television viewership. This method allowed for an elucidation of any long-term trends or cyclical patterns that may have unfolded over the remarkable expanse of four decades. Armed with the wits of rigorous statistical methods and the tenacious spirit of inquiry, our team ventured into the uncharted terrain of data manipulation and analysis, striving to extract profound meaning from the labyrinthine depths of our datasets.

In sum, our methodology embraced an eclectic fusion of data acquisition, statistical acumen, and a dash of academic derring-do, endeavoring to enlighten the academic community with our curious findings. As we embark on the presentation of our research findings, we invite readers to journey alongside us and witness the peculiar tapestry that blends air pollutants with the captivating realm of soap opera viewership in Richmond, Virginia.


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 Air pollution in Richmond, Virginia and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. 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 Wikipedia .

For the time period 1980 to 2021, you found a correlation 0.8404414, r-squared of 0.7063418, 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]]
"Air Pollution: A Soap Opera for Days of Our Lives Viewership in Richmond, Virginia"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the curious link between air pollution levels in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the iconic soap opera "Days of Our Lives." Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, we performed a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 1980 to 2021. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a statistically significant relationship between these seemingly disparate variables. The unexpected implications of our results may leave some scratching their heads, but one thing is clear: the drama of air pollution can certainly impact the dramas on our screens. This research sheds light on the enigmatic connection between environmental factors and entertainment preferences, highlighting the need for further investigation into the complex interplay between atmospheric conditions and audience behavior.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The relationship between air pollution and human health outcomes has been extensively studied in the fields of public health and environmental science. However, a less explored area is the potential impact of air pollution on cultural phenomena and entertainment preferences. In this study, we delve into the unexpected and somewhat whimsical connection between air pollution levels in the city of Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera "Days of Our Lives." The bustling metropolis of Richmond, with its rich history and diverse population, provides an intriguing setting for investigating this peculiar correlation. By analyzing decades of data, we aim to shed light on the surprising interplay between atmospheric conditions and television consumption.
As scholars and researchers, we are always eager to uncover new connections and unexpected relationships between seemingly unrelated variables. Unraveling the statistical tapestry that ties air quality to soap opera viewership may seem peculiar at first glance, but the complexities of human behavior often yield fascinating discoveries when approached with an open mind and a keen eye for patterns. While our investigation may raise eyebrows and elicit a few chuckles, the pursuit of knowledge often leads us down unexpected paths, and the journey itself can be as enlightening as the destination.
This study endeavors to bridge the gap between the scientific study of air pollution and the lighthearted world of daytime television dramas. The correlation discovered between air pollution levels and the popularity of "Days of Our Lives" in Richmond, Virginia, compels us to consider the far-reaching implications of environmental factors on cultural consumption. It is a reminder that even the most seemingly inconsequential aspects of our environment may leave an indelible mark on our daily choices and interactions. Our investigation, while certainly novel in its focus, stands as a testament to the continuing evolution of interdisciplinary inquiry, where the line between the serious and the unexpected can often blur in intriguing ways.
Join us as we embark on a journey to unravel the enigmatic relationship between air pollution and the soap opera saga of "Days of Our Lives." The results of our study may hold unforeseen implications and open the door to new avenues of research, proving once again that the world of science is full of surprises and, dare we say, a dash of theatrical flair.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The analysis of the data gathered from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia revealed a robust correlation between air pollution levels and viewership count for "Days of Our Lives" in Richmond, Virginia. Over the 41-year period from 1980 to 2021, a correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and an r-squared value of 0.7063418 were calculated. The p-value of less than 0.01 indicates that this correlation is statistically significant, suggesting a noteworthy relationship between the two seemingly unrelated variables.

This strong correlation is vividly depicted in Fig. 1, where the scatterplot illustrates the conspicuous association between varying levels of air pollution and the fluctuating viewership count for "Days of Our Lives" in Richmond, Virginia. The scatterplot leaves little room for doubt about the intriguing nature of this relationship, as it punctuates the findings with a visual flourish that intrigues the eye almost as much as the soap opera storyline itself.

The unexpected confluence of environmental data and soap opera viewership presents an alluring enigma, showcasing the delightful quirkiness that can be unveiled through interdisciplinary research. The statistical significance of the correlation between air pollution and "Days of Our Lives" viewership count elicits a raised eyebrow and a chuckle, serving as a whimsical reminder that the world of empirical inquiry often holds unexpected and amusing surprises.

The implications of these findings are as mysterious as the plot twists in a captivating soap opera. While our investigation may have begun as an offbeat curiosity, the results prompt a shift in perspective, urging us to ponder the far-reaching impact of environmental factors on cultural consumption. This curious correlation serves as a testament to the eccentricities of human behavior and the whims of statistical fate, reminding us that even the most unlikely pairings can yield insightful discoveries.

In the grand tapestry of scientific inquiry, our study weaves a vibrant thread that intertwines the serious study of air pollution with the lighthearted allure of daytime television dramas. The statistical connection between air pollution in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for "Days of Our Lives" beckons us to consider the intricate web of influences that shape our daily choices and interactions, proving that even the most unassuming variables may hold unexpected sway over human behavior.

In conclusion, our investigation into the relationship between air pollution and "Days of Our Lives" viewership count in Richmond, Virginia, stands as a vivid portrayal of the whimsy and wonder that can be unearthed in the pursuit of knowledge. This correlation, while initially raising a quizzical eyebrow, unfurls the captivating and, dare we say, melodramatic narrative woven into the fabric of statistical analysis.


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 Air pollution in Richmond, Virginia and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. 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]]
"Air Pollution: A Soap Opera for Days of Our Lives Viewership in Richmond, Virginia"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the curious link between air pollution levels in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the iconic soap opera "Days of Our Lives." Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, we performed a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 1980 to 2021. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a statistically significant relationship between these seemingly disparate variables. The unexpected implications of our results may leave some scratching their heads, but one thing is clear: the drama of air pollution can certainly impact the dramas on our screens. This research sheds light on the enigmatic connection between environmental factors and entertainment preferences, highlighting the need for further investigation into the complex interplay between atmospheric conditions and audience behavior.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
In "The Impact of Air Pollution on Human Health," Smith et al. demonstrate the well-established relationship between air pollution and adverse health effects, highlighting the importance of monitoring and mitigating atmospheric pollutants. Similarly, Doe and Jones, in "Environmental Factors and Human Behavior," explore the influence of environmental conditions on human decision-making and behavior, offering valuable insights into the interconnectedness of external stimuli and societal patterns.
Turning to the realm of popular culture, "The Influence of Media on Public Perception," by Blackwell and Brown, delves into the intricate dynamics between media consumption and audience attitudes, providing a broad framework for understanding the nuanced interactions between entertainment content and viewer preferences. Meanwhile, "Television and Social Behavior," a seminal work by Robinson and Smith, sheds light on the multifaceted relationship between television programming and social dynamics, underscoring the pervasive impact of visual storytelling on audience engagement and collective consciousness. These scholarly works form the backdrop for our exploration of the unexpected correlation between air pollution in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for "Days of Our Lives."
Transitioning from non-fiction to fiction, the world of literature offers a diverse array of perspectives on human experiences and societal reflections. "The Grapes of Wrath" by John Steinbeck, while not directly related to our investigation, poignantly captures the struggles of individuals amidst environmental hardships, reminding us of the enduring influence of atmospheric conditions on human narratives. In a similar vein, the timeless classic "Wuthering Heights" by Emily Brontë, though centered on romantic turmoil, intricately weaves the atmospheric elements of the Yorkshire moors into the emotional tapestry of its characters, inviting contemplation on the atmospheric backdrop of human dramas.
Venturing further afield, we could not overlook the compelling narratives found in the works of detective fiction. The intricate plots of Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express" and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "Sherlock Holmes" series, while far removed from our research focus, offer thrilling examples of the captivating drama that unfolds amidst seemingly unrelated elements—much like the unexpected correlation we seek to unravel.
As we expand our purview to unexpected sources, it is worth noting that the authors, in pursuit of comprehensive research, have also gleaned insights from alternative avenues of inquiry. During the course of this investigation, the researchers stumbled upon intriguing perspectives printed on the backs of shampoo bottles, offering whimsical musings and peculiar observations on the interplay of soap and suds, which, in a rather serendipitous manner, seemed oddly reminiscent of the narrative twists and sudsy drama characteristic of "Days of Our Lives." While not scientific in nature, these unorthodox sources served as a source of unexpected amusement and imaginative inspiration, reminding us that scholarly pursuits can come from the most unexpected places.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of the data gathered from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia revealed a robust correlation between air pollution levels and viewership count for "Days of Our Lives" in Richmond, Virginia. Over the 41-year period from 1980 to 2021, a correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and an r-squared value of 0.7063418 were calculated. The p-value of less than 0.01 indicates that this correlation is statistically significant, suggesting a noteworthy relationship between the two seemingly unrelated variables.
This strong correlation is vividly depicted in Fig. 1, where the scatterplot illustrates the conspicuous association between varying levels of air pollution and the fluctuating viewership count for "Days of Our Lives" in Richmond, Virginia. The scatterplot leaves little room for doubt about the intriguing nature of this relationship, as it punctuates the findings with a visual flourish that intrigues the eye almost as much as the soap opera storyline itself.
The unexpected confluence of environmental data and soap opera viewership presents an alluring enigma, showcasing the delightful quirkiness that can be unveiled through interdisciplinary research. The statistical significance of the correlation between air pollution and "Days of Our Lives" viewership count elicits a raised eyebrow and a chuckle, serving as a whimsical reminder that the world of empirical inquiry often holds unexpected and amusing surprises.
The implications of these findings are as mysterious as the plot twists in a captivating soap opera. While our investigation may have begun as an offbeat curiosity, the results prompt a shift in perspective, urging us to ponder the far-reaching impact of environmental factors on cultural consumption. This curious correlation serves as a testament to the eccentricities of human behavior and the whims of statistical fate, reminding us that even the most unlikely pairings can yield insightful discoveries.
In the grand tapestry of scientific inquiry, our study weaves a vibrant thread that intertwines the serious study of air pollution with the lighthearted allure of daytime television dramas. The statistical connection between air pollution in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for "Days of Our Lives" beckons us to consider the intricate web of influences that shape our daily choices and interactions, proving that even the most unassuming variables may hold unexpected sway over human behavior.
In conclusion, our investigation into the relationship between air pollution and "Days of Our Lives" viewership count in Richmond, Virginia, stands as a vivid portrayal of the whimsy and wonder that can be unearthed in the pursuit of knowledge. This correlation, while initially raising a quizzical eyebrow, unfurls the captivating and, dare we say, melodramatic narrative woven into the fabric of statistical analysis.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

The findings of our study have unearthed a remarkable connection between air pollution in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for "Days of Our Lives," present an intriguing juxtaposition of environmental factors and cultural consumption. As predicted by Smith et al. in "The Impact of Air Pollution on Human Health," our results supported the existing literature demonstrating the profound influence of air pollution on human behavior. It appears that while the human fight for clean air persists, the allure of soap opera drama draws viewers in, creating a curious tango between environmental concerns and entertainment preferences.

The unexpected correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 compares to a plot twist in a suspenseful soap opera, surprising and captivating in equal measure. Through the lens of statistical analysis, our findings fortify Doe and Jones's exploration of environmental factors and human behavior, providing empirical evidence of the intricate interplay between atmospheric conditions and audience behaviors. It seems that the air pollution in Richmond, Virginia has been playing its own dramatic role, shadowing the lives of both citizens and soap opera characters in a whimsical plotline worthy of its own scripted saga.

The consistency of our results with the literature on the pervasive impact of media consumption on audience attitudes, as discussed by Blackwell and Brown in "The Influence of Media on Public Perception," offers a striking parallel to the interwoven narratives of air pollution and soap opera viewership. One might say that in the complex dance of atmospheric conditions and entertainment preferences, our study has revealed a melodramatic choreography that leaves us on the edge of our seats.

The mystique surrounding our unexpected findings serves as a refreshing reminder that even scholarly pursuits are not immune to the capricious nature of statistical fate. Our fortuitous discovery of this enticing correlation brings to mind the enigmatic twists found in the thrilling works of detective fiction. Just as Agatha Christie's intricate plots captivate readers with their unexpected turns, our study unfurls an equally mesmerizing narrative, cementing the unusual bond between air pollution and the adoring fans of "Days of Our Lives," thus proving that researchers can also be sleuths in uncovering the secrets of statistical intrigue.

Indeed, from the unconventional musings printed on shampoo bottles to the centuries-old atmospheric musings intertwined with literature, our exploration has been enriched by the juxtaposition of the unexpected and the empirical. As our investigation culminates in this unexpected correlation, we find ourselves positioned at the intersection of statistical analysis and lighthearted indulgence, demonstrating that amidst the seriousness of scientific inquiry lies a captivating tale of whimsy and statistical revelation.

In summary, our study has not only highlighted the astounding relationship between air pollution levels and "Days of Our Lives" viewership count in Richmond, Virginia but has also illuminated the enthralling duality of scientific inquiry and soap opera drama. As we venture forward, let our investigation stand as a testament to the often whimsical, yet profound, paths that empirical studies traverse, leaving us with new insights and an appreciation of the unexpected comedic show.


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 Air pollution in Richmond, Virginia and Viewership count for Days of Our Lives. 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]]
"Air Pollution: A Soap Opera for Days of Our Lives Viewership in Richmond, Virginia"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the curious link between air pollution levels in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the iconic soap opera "Days of Our Lives." Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, we performed a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 1980 to 2021. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a statistically significant relationship between these seemingly disparate variables. The unexpected implications of our results may leave some scratching their heads, but one thing is clear: the drama of air pollution can certainly impact the dramas on our screens. This research sheds light on the enigmatic connection between environmental factors and entertainment preferences, highlighting the need for further investigation into the complex interplay between atmospheric conditions and audience behavior.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The relationship between air pollution and human health outcomes has been extensively studied in the fields of public health and environmental science. However, a less explored area is the potential impact of air pollution on cultural phenomena and entertainment preferences. In this study, we delve into the unexpected and somewhat whimsical connection between air pollution levels in the city of Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the long-running soap opera "Days of Our Lives." The bustling metropolis of Richmond, with its rich history and diverse population, provides an intriguing setting for investigating this peculiar correlation. By analyzing decades of data, we aim to shed light on the surprising interplay between atmospheric conditions and television consumption.
As scholars and researchers, we are always eager to uncover new connections and unexpected relationships between seemingly unrelated variables. Unraveling the statistical tapestry that ties air quality to soap opera viewership may seem peculiar at first glance, but the complexities of human behavior often yield fascinating discoveries when approached with an open mind and a keen eye for patterns. While our investigation may raise eyebrows and elicit a few chuckles, the pursuit of knowledge often leads us down unexpected paths, and the journey itself can be as enlightening as the destination.
This study endeavors to bridge the gap between the scientific study of air pollution and the lighthearted world of daytime television dramas. The correlation discovered between air pollution levels and the popularity of "Days of Our Lives" in Richmond, Virginia, compels us to consider the far-reaching implications of environmental factors on cultural consumption. It is a reminder that even the most seemingly inconsequential aspects of our environment may leave an indelible mark on our daily choices and interactions. Our investigation, while certainly novel in its focus, stands as a testament to the continuing evolution of interdisciplinary inquiry, where the line between the serious and the unexpected can often blur in intriguing ways.
Join us as we embark on a journey to unravel the enigmatic relationship between air pollution and the soap opera saga of "Days of Our Lives." The results of our study may hold unforeseen implications and open the door to new avenues of research, proving once again that the world of science is full of surprises and, dare we say, a dash of theatrical flair.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of the data gathered from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia revealed a robust correlation between air pollution levels and viewership count for "Days of Our Lives" in Richmond, Virginia. Over the 41-year period from 1980 to 2021, a correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and an r-squared value of 0.7063418 were calculated. The p-value of less than 0.01 indicates that this correlation is statistically significant, suggesting a noteworthy relationship between the two seemingly unrelated variables.
This strong correlation is vividly depicted in Fig. 1, where the scatterplot illustrates the conspicuous association between varying levels of air pollution and the fluctuating viewership count for "Days of Our Lives" in Richmond, Virginia. The scatterplot leaves little room for doubt about the intriguing nature of this relationship, as it punctuates the findings with a visual flourish that intrigues the eye almost as much as the soap opera storyline itself.
The unexpected confluence of environmental data and soap opera viewership presents an alluring enigma, showcasing the delightful quirkiness that can be unveiled through interdisciplinary research. The statistical significance of the correlation between air pollution and "Days of Our Lives" viewership count elicits a raised eyebrow and a chuckle, serving as a whimsical reminder that the world of empirical inquiry often holds unexpected and amusing surprises.
The implications of these findings are as mysterious as the plot twists in a captivating soap opera. While our investigation may have begun as an offbeat curiosity, the results prompt a shift in perspective, urging us to ponder the far-reaching impact of environmental factors on cultural consumption. This curious correlation serves as a testament to the eccentricities of human behavior and the whims of statistical fate, reminding us that even the most unlikely pairings can yield insightful discoveries.
In the grand tapestry of scientific inquiry, our study weaves a vibrant thread that intertwines the serious study of air pollution with the lighthearted allure of daytime television dramas. The statistical connection between air pollution in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for "Days of Our Lives" beckons us to consider the intricate web of influences that shape our daily choices and interactions, proving that even the most unassuming variables may hold unexpected sway over human behavior.
In conclusion, our investigation into the relationship between air pollution and "Days of Our Lives" viewership count in Richmond, Virginia, stands as a vivid portrayal of the whimsy and wonder that can be unearthed in the pursuit of knowledge. This correlation, while initially raising a quizzical eyebrow, unfurls the captivating and, dare we say, melodramatic narrative woven into the fabric of statistical analysis.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In summary, our study has unraveled a captivating correlation between air pollution levels in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for "Days of Our Lives." The robust correlation coefficient and statistically significant p-value leave little room for doubt about the unexpected relationship between these seemingly disparate variables. It seems that while the denizens of Richmond navigate the twists and turns of daily life, they may also find themselves subconsciously swayed by the atmospheric drama unfolding around them.

The vivid depiction of this correlation in the scatterplot serves as a visual testament to the whimsical nature of our findings. It's almost as if the data itself is performing a soap opera of its own, with air pollution and viewership count locked in a dramatic embrace.

Our study, while initially veering into the realm of whimsy, has compellingly highlighted the far-reaching implications of environmental factors on cultural consumption. This unexpected correlation serves as a delightful reminder of the intriguing vagaries of human behavior and the often surprising ways in which statistical analyses can unfold.

We assert that no further research is needed in this area. While we appreciate the unexpected delights that interdisciplinary inquiry can uncover, we believe it is time for us to bid adieu to this particular intersection of air pollution and soap operas, and perhaps turn our attention to uncovering other eccentric correlations waiting to be unearthed.


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 Air Pollution: A Soap Opera for Days of Our Lives Viewership in Richmond, Virginia. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

Journal of Environmental Psychology and Pop Culture


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of nonprofit research organizations and associations. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding nonprofit, academic, or scientific association or organization that would sponsor research that resulted in a paper entited Air Pollution: A Soap Opera for Days of Our Lives Viewership in Richmond, Virginia. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for Quirky Environmental Studies


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled Air Pollution: A Soap Opera for Days of Our Lives Viewership in Richmond, Virginia with an abstract of This study examines the curious link between air pollution levels in Richmond, Virginia, and the viewership count for the iconic soap opera "Days of Our Lives." Utilizing data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wikipedia, we performed a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 1980 to 2021. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.8404414 and a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a statistically significant relationship between these seemingly disparate variables. The unexpected implications of our results may leave some scratching their heads, but one thing is clear: the drama of air pollution can certainly impact the dramas on our screens. This research sheds light on the enigmatic connection between environmental factors and entertainment preferences, highlighting the need for further investigation into the complex interplay between atmospheric conditions and audience behavior.

ChatGPT:

air pollution, soap opera, Days of Our Lives, viewership, Richmond, Virginia, EPA data, correlation analysis, entertainment preferences, environmental factors, atmospheric conditions, audience behavior

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

Viewership count for Days of Our Lives
Detailed data title: Metered viewership count for Days of Our Lives
Source: Wikipedia
See what else correlates with Viewership count for Days of Our Lives

Correlation r = 0.8404414 (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 = 0.7063418 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 70.6% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Viewership count for Days of Our Lives) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Air pollution in Richmond, Virginia) over the 42 years from 1980 through 2021.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 3.4E-12. 0.0000000000033599179268269177
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 0.84 in 3.4E-10% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 297,626,317,600 random variables You don't actually need 297 billion 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 41 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 41 because we have two variables measured over a period of 42 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.

[ 0.72, 0.91 ] 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.
198019811982198319841985198619871988198919901991199219931994199519961997199819992000200120022003200420052006200720082009201020112012201320142015201620172018201920202021
Air pollution in Richmond, Virginia (Bad air quality days)17.213113.972612.328824.383615.027319.178112.328820.821920.7659.8630112.328815.89049.8360723.561617.808213.972611.202218.356220.27416.43849.5628413.150715.89048.767127.3770512.60278.4931512.05488.743170.5479456.849326.02745.191260.2739730.5479450.8219181.09290.2739730.547945000.821918
Viewership count for Days of Our Lives (Nielson share)560000055000005700000710000071000007200000700000071000006500000540000052000005400000490000056000005300000580000058000005100000580000042000003800000360000031000003100000270000026000002300000210000022000002200000200000020000002100000190000020500001800000160000016000001600000140000012000001200000




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([17.2131,13.9726,12.3288,24.3836,15.0273,19.1781,12.3288,20.8219,20.765,9.86301,12.3288,15.8904,9.83607,23.5616,17.8082,13.9726,11.2022,18.3562,20.274,16.4384,9.56284,13.1507,15.8904,8.76712,7.37705,12.6027,8.49315,12.0548,8.74317,0.547945,6.84932,6.0274,5.19126,0.273973,0.547945,0.821918,1.0929,0.273973,0.547945,0,0,0.821918,])
array_2 = np.array([5600000,5500000,5700000,7100000,7100000,7200000,7000000,7100000,6500000,5400000,5200000,5400000,4900000,5600000,5300000,5800000,5800000,5100000,5800000,4200000,3800000,3600000,3100000,3100000,2700000,2600000,2300000,2100000,2200000,2200000,2000000,2000000,2100000,1900000,2050000,1800000,1600000,1600000,1600000,1400000,1200000,1200000,])
array_1_name = "Air pollution in Richmond, Virginia"
array_2_name = "Viewership count for Days of Our Lives"

# 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: 2670 · Black Variable ID: 21141 · Red Variable ID: 87
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