about · email me · subscribe
Spurious correlation #3,441 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the second variable is FedEx's stock price (FDX).  The chart goes from 2003 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

As the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine rises, so does the demand for leather goods. This increase in demand leads to higher production rates at leather factories across the country. And what do leather goods have to do with FedEx, you ask? Well, it just so happens that FedEx is the primary shipping company for many of these leather factories. With the uptick in orders, FedEx experiences a surge in business, ultimately boosting their stock price. Who knew that the hum of motorcycle engines in Maine could rev up the stock market in such a roundabout way? It's like they say, the road to financial success is full of unexpected twists and turns!

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate a comic-book-style illustration with muted colors and a dotted halftone pattern from the 1960s portraying a bustling street in Maine. The street is lined with shops and repair garages. In the center, a group of motorcycle mechanics are diligently working on fixing up motorcycles. The sound of revving engines fills the air, creating an energetic atmosphere. On a nearby electronic billboard, FedEx's stock price (FDX) ticks upward steadily. The scene is filled with a sense of increasing activity and prosperity as the growing number of motorcycle mechanics positively impacts FedEx's stock price. The illustration captures the lively and bustling scene with vibrant energy and vintage comic book aesthetics. 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: The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price (FDX). 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: Data cyber art A comic-book-style illustration with muted colors and a dotted halftone pattern from the 1960s a meme a funny image you would see on reddit Whimsical illustration
ChatGPT: a comic-book-style illustration with muted colors and a dotted halftone pattern from the 1960s

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 The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price (FDX), in the following situation: The increase in motorcycle mechanics in Maine caused FedEx's stock price to increase because more mechanics means more people fixing up their bikes and using them for deliveries, boosting FedEx's shipping volume and profitability. Plus, the roaring sound of motorcycles has been scientifically proven to bring good luck to stocks, so there's that too.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: A bustling street in Maine, lined with shops and repair garages. In the center, a group of motorcycle mechanics diligently work on fixing up motorcycles. The sound of revving engines fills the air, creating an energetic atmosphere. Meanwhile, on a nearby electronic billboard, FedEx's stock price (FDX) ticks upward steadily. The scene is filled with a sense of increasing activity and prosperity, as the growing number of motorcycle mechanics positively impacts FedEx's stock price.

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 comic-book-style illustration with muted colors and a dotted halftone pattern from the 1960s ] and depicting this scene: A bustling street in Maine, lined with shops and repair garages. In the center, a group of motorcycle mechanics diligently work on fixing up motorcycles. The sound of revving engines fills the air, creating an energetic atmosphere. Meanwhile, on a nearby electronic billboard, FedEx's stock price (FDX) ticks upward steadily. The scene is filled with a sense of increasing activity and prosperity, as the growing number of motorcycle mechanics positively impacts FedEx's stock price. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate a comic-book-style illustration with muted colors and a dotted halftone pattern from the 1960s portraying a bustling street in Maine. The street is lined with shops and repair garages. In the center, a group of motorcycle mechanics are diligently working on fixing up motorcycles. The sound of revving engines fills the air, creating an energetic atmosphere. On a nearby electronic billboard, FedEx's stock price (FDX) ticks upward steadily. The scene is filled with a sense of increasing activity and prosperity as the growing number of motorcycle mechanics positively impacts FedEx's stock price. The illustration captures the lively and bustling scene with vibrant energy and vintage comic book aesthetics.

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

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

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how an increase in The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine caused FedEx's stock price (FDX) to increase.\Make it sound serious until the end.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Tireless Travels and Stock Revs: An Investigation into the Link between the Number of Motorcycle Mechanics in Maine and FedEx's Stock Price (FDX)

The Journal of Quirky Economic Analysis

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 The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price (FDX). 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 Bureau of Larbor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 and p < 0.01 for 2003 to 2022.

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

[[TITLE]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit

[[ABSTRACT]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit



ChatGPT:
[[TITLE]]
Tireless Travels and Stock Revs: An Investigation into the Link between the Number of Motorcycle Mechanics in Maine and FedEx's Stock Price (FDX)

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the unexpected and potentially revving up relationship between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX). Despite the seemingly far-fetched connection, our research team utilized data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) to rigorously analyze this intriguing correlation. Our findings reveal a surprisingly high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2003 to 2022. This unexpected and inexplicably tight relationship between such seemingly unrelated variables presents an enigma that begs for further examination. We aim to shed light on this quirky association, offering new perspectives on the potential influence of motorcycle mechanics on the performance of this shipping giant's stock.


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 The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price (FDX). Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Tireless Travels and Stock Revs: An Investigation into the Link between the Number of Motorcycle Mechanics in Maine and FedEx's Stock Price (FDX)

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the unexpected and potentially revving up relationship between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX). Despite the seemingly far-fetched connection, our research team utilized data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) to rigorously analyze this intriguing correlation. Our findings reveal a surprisingly high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2003 to 2022. This unexpected and inexplicably tight relationship between such seemingly unrelated variables presents an enigma that begs for further examination. We aim to shed light on this quirky association, offering new perspectives on the potential influence of motorcycle mechanics on the performance of this shipping giant's stock.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

In the intricate web of financial markets, where patterns and correlations are diligently sought after like precious hidden treasures, the most unexpected of connections can often materialize. One such seemingly unlikely link has caught the attention of our research team: the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the fluctuating tides of FedEx's stock price (FDX). While one might initially dismiss this correlation as an oddity of statistical noise, our rigorous analysis has unearthed a relationship that demands attention.

The idea that the booming or dwindling population of motorcycle mechanics in the northeastern state of Maine could have any bearing on the performance of a multinational shipping and logistics corporation might indeed strike one as a stretch. However, as with any enigma, our curiosity was piqued, and we delved into the world of data, economics, and, unexpectedly, the vibrant community of motorcycle enthusiasts and repair specialists. The journey was filled with unexpected twists and turns, much like the highways and byways traversed by the dedicated mechanics in question.

As the engines of our statistical models roared to life, we were met with a surprising sight: a correlation coefficient that could make even the most seasoned Wall Street analyst raise an eyebrow. The figures spoke for themselves, revealing a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 between the aforementioned variables, accompanied by a p-value that stood resolutely below the hallowed threshold of 0.01. The implications of this discovery are as staggering as the maneuverability of a sleek motorcycle navigating a winding road.

Our findings not only challenge conventional wisdom and traditional econometric models but also pose a fascinating puzzle to be unraveled in the vast tapestry of financial analysis. The impact of the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine on the performance of FedEx's stock is an unexpected narrative woven through the fabric of market dynamics, with twists and turns that defy the conventional logic of cause and effect. In the following sections, we embark on a journey to dissect this quirky association, teasing out the threads that may reveal the colorful tapestry intertwining these disparate elements.


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 The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price (FDX). 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 name a couple popular internet memes that are related to one of the topics.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Tireless Travels and Stock Revs: An Investigation into the Link between the Number of Motorcycle Mechanics in Maine and FedEx's Stock Price (FDX)

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the unexpected and potentially revving up relationship between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX). Despite the seemingly far-fetched connection, our research team utilized data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) to rigorously analyze this intriguing correlation. Our findings reveal a surprisingly high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2003 to 2022. This unexpected and inexplicably tight relationship between such seemingly unrelated variables presents an enigma that begs for further examination. We aim to shed light on this quirky association, offering new perspectives on the potential influence of motorcycle mechanics on the performance of this shipping giant's stock.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
In the intricate web of financial markets, where patterns and correlations are diligently sought after like precious hidden treasures, the most unexpected of connections can often materialize. One such seemingly unlikely link has caught the attention of our research team: the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the fluctuating tides of FedEx's stock price (FDX). While one might initially dismiss this correlation as an oddity of statistical noise, our rigorous analysis has unearthed a relationship that demands attention.
The idea that the booming or dwindling population of motorcycle mechanics in the northeastern state of Maine could have any bearing on the performance of a multinational shipping and logistics corporation might indeed strike one as a stretch. However, as with any enigma, our curiosity was piqued, and we delved into the world of data, economics, and, unexpectedly, the vibrant community of motorcycle enthusiasts and repair specialists. The journey was filled with unexpected twists and turns, much like the highways and byways traversed by the dedicated mechanics in question.
As the engines of our statistical models roared to life, we were met with a surprising sight: a correlation coefficient that could make even the most seasoned Wall Street analyst raise an eyebrow. The figures spoke for themselves, revealing a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 between the aforementioned variables, accompanied by a p-value that stood resolutely below the hallowed threshold of 0.01. The implications of this discovery are as staggering as the maneuverability of a sleek motorcycle navigating a winding road.
Our findings not only challenge conventional wisdom and traditional econometric models but also pose a fascinating puzzle to be unraveled in the vast tapestry of financial analysis. The impact of the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine on the performance of FedEx's stock is an unexpected narrative woven through the fabric of market dynamics, with twists and turns that defy the conventional logic of cause and effect. In the following sections, we embark on a journey to dissect this quirky association, teasing out the threads that may reveal the colorful tapestry intertwining these disparate elements.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

Smith (2010) set the stage for our investigation by uncovering the surprising impact of seemingly unrelated factors on stock prices. In their study, they found that variables such as weather patterns, celebrity divorces, and even the number of chocolate chip cookies consumed in a given quarter could influence stock market movements. This groundbreaking work challenged traditional economic theories and paved the way for our exploration of the connection between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price.

Building on this foundation, Doe (2015) delved into the world of niche industries and their potential influence on stock market dynamics. Although their research primarily focused on the effect of artisanal cheese production on the Dow Jones Industrial Average, the underlying premise resonates with our current inquiry. Just as the artisanal cheese market exerts its subtle yet perceptible impact on stock prices, our investigation posits a similar phenomenon in the context of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx.

Jones (2018) expanded the scope of unconventional market indicators by exploring the intersection of peculiar professions and stock valuation. Their analysis uncovered a surprising correlation between the number of professional unicyclists in urban areas and the performance of transportation sector stocks. Although their research did not directly intersect with our specific inquiry, it hints at the uncharted territory of offbeat occupational influences on financial markets.

Moving beyond the traditional realm of academic research, the works of "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" (Pirsig, 1974) and "The Motorcycle Diaries" (Guevara, 1993) offer nuanced perspectives on the cultural significance of motorcycles and their role in shaping individual journeys. While these literary masterpieces do not provide empirical evidence of stock market correlations, they provide a rich backdrop for our exploration of the broader societal impact of motorcycle culture, which may indirectly influence market dynamics in ways yet to be fully understood.

In a surprising turn of events, the internet meme "Distracted Boyfriend" (2017) gained unexpected relevance to our investigation when a playful reinterpretation emerged, featuring a befuddled investor gazing longingly at a motorcycle mechanic while neglecting the FedEx stock price chart. This humorous twist underscored the pervasive nature of our research topic and the whimsical connections that can emerge in the digital sphere.

As we navigate this unconventional terrain of academic inquiry, we embrace the unexpected and the unexplored, recognizing that the intersection of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx holds untold potential for illuminating the intricate fabric of market dynamics.


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 The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price (FDX). Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Bureau of Larbor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) . You used data from 2003 to 2022

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

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Tireless Travels and Stock Revs: An Investigation into the Link between the Number of Motorcycle Mechanics in Maine and FedEx's Stock Price (FDX)

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the unexpected and potentially revving up relationship between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX). Despite the seemingly far-fetched connection, our research team utilized data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) to rigorously analyze this intriguing correlation. Our findings reveal a surprisingly high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2003 to 2022. This unexpected and inexplicably tight relationship between such seemingly unrelated variables presents an enigma that begs for further examination. We aim to shed light on this quirky association, offering new perspectives on the potential influence of motorcycle mechanics on the performance of this shipping giant's stock.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
In the intricate web of financial markets, where patterns and correlations are diligently sought after like precious hidden treasures, the most unexpected of connections can often materialize. One such seemingly unlikely link has caught the attention of our research team: the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the fluctuating tides of FedEx's stock price (FDX). While one might initially dismiss this correlation as an oddity of statistical noise, our rigorous analysis has unearthed a relationship that demands attention.
The idea that the booming or dwindling population of motorcycle mechanics in the northeastern state of Maine could have any bearing on the performance of a multinational shipping and logistics corporation might indeed strike one as a stretch. However, as with any enigma, our curiosity was piqued, and we delved into the world of data, economics, and, unexpectedly, the vibrant community of motorcycle enthusiasts and repair specialists. The journey was filled with unexpected twists and turns, much like the highways and byways traversed by the dedicated mechanics in question.
As the engines of our statistical models roared to life, we were met with a surprising sight: a correlation coefficient that could make even the most seasoned Wall Street analyst raise an eyebrow. The figures spoke for themselves, revealing a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 between the aforementioned variables, accompanied by a p-value that stood resolutely below the hallowed threshold of 0.01. The implications of this discovery are as staggering as the maneuverability of a sleek motorcycle navigating a winding road.
Our findings not only challenge conventional wisdom and traditional econometric models but also pose a fascinating puzzle to be unraveled in the vast tapestry of financial analysis. The impact of the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine on the performance of FedEx's stock is an unexpected narrative woven through the fabric of market dynamics, with twists and turns that defy the conventional logic of cause and effect. In the following sections, we embark on a journey to dissect this quirky association, teasing out the threads that may reveal the colorful tapestry intertwining these disparate elements.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

In our pursuit of unraveling the mysterious link between the workforce of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX), we embarked on a data-driven odyssey that involved meticulous collection and rigorous analysis. Our study drew upon a blend of statistical techniques, economic models, and a dash of scholarly intuition, akin to the combination of skills and precision required of a skilled motorcycle mechanic fixing the intricacies of an engine.

Data Collection:
We cast our net far and wide across the expanse of the internet, but ultimately found our quarry in the Bureau of Labor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv). We gathered information on the number of motorcycle mechanics employed in Maine, mining through the data with a keen eye for quality and reliability. We also sourced historical stock price data of FedEx (FDX) from reputable financial databases, ensuring that our stock of information was as robust as a well-optimized motorcycle engine.

Variable Selection:
The choice of variables was akin to selecting the ideal gear for navigating through varying terrains. We accounted for the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine as our independent variable, representing the exuberant workforce adept at handling the intricacies of two-wheeled machines. Our dependent variable, the stock price of FedEx (FDX), stood as a beacon in the financial landscape, responding to the ebbs and flows of market dynamics.

Statistical Analysis:
Our approach melded traditional econometric methods with a hint of whimsy, much like the unexpected blend of ingredients in a secret motorcycle maintenance potion. We employed time-series analysis to capture the inherent dynamics of our data over the period from 2003 to 2022, flexing our analytical muscles to reveal the hidden forces at play.

Correlation and Regression:
The keystone of our investigation lay in the examination of the relationship between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX). Through correlation and regression analysis, we sought to unravel the enigmatic connections that escape casual observation, much like the intricate interplay of components within a finely-tuned motorcycle engine.

Robustness Checks:
Our exploration did not conclude with the first glimpse of correlation; rather, we subjected our findings to robustness checks akin to stress-testing a high-performance motorcycle. Sensitivity analyses and alternative model specifications allowed us to assess the reliability of our results and ascertain the resilience of our statistical inferences.

Validity and Reliability:
To ensure the validity and reliability of our findings, we cautiously navigated the waves of statistical significance, leveraging the time-tested principles of hypothesis testing and inference to mitigate the risk of spurious relationships. Our quest for truth emerged as robust as a well-anchored motorcycle side stand, firmly grounding our contributions to the panorama of financial research.

In summary, our methodology intertwines the intricacies of data collection, statistical analysis, and empirical rigor to navigate the unexpected terrain of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock ride of FedEx (FDX). Just as a motorcycle mechanic deftly handles the nuances of an engine, our methodological approach deftly handles the complexities of uncovering unexpected statistical relationships, albeit without the smudges of motor oil and grease.


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 The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price (FDX). Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Bureau of Larbor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) .

For the time period 2003 to 2022, you found a correlation 0.9130032, r-squared of 0.8335748, 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]]
Tireless Travels and Stock Revs: An Investigation into the Link between the Number of Motorcycle Mechanics in Maine and FedEx's Stock Price (FDX)

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the unexpected and potentially revving up relationship between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX). Despite the seemingly far-fetched connection, our research team utilized data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) to rigorously analyze this intriguing correlation. Our findings reveal a surprisingly high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2003 to 2022. This unexpected and inexplicably tight relationship between such seemingly unrelated variables presents an enigma that begs for further examination. We aim to shed light on this quirky association, offering new perspectives on the potential influence of motorcycle mechanics on the performance of this shipping giant's stock.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
In the intricate web of financial markets, where patterns and correlations are diligently sought after like precious hidden treasures, the most unexpected of connections can often materialize. One such seemingly unlikely link has caught the attention of our research team: the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the fluctuating tides of FedEx's stock price (FDX). While one might initially dismiss this correlation as an oddity of statistical noise, our rigorous analysis has unearthed a relationship that demands attention.
The idea that the booming or dwindling population of motorcycle mechanics in the northeastern state of Maine could have any bearing on the performance of a multinational shipping and logistics corporation might indeed strike one as a stretch. However, as with any enigma, our curiosity was piqued, and we delved into the world of data, economics, and, unexpectedly, the vibrant community of motorcycle enthusiasts and repair specialists. The journey was filled with unexpected twists and turns, much like the highways and byways traversed by the dedicated mechanics in question.
As the engines of our statistical models roared to life, we were met with a surprising sight: a correlation coefficient that could make even the most seasoned Wall Street analyst raise an eyebrow. The figures spoke for themselves, revealing a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 between the aforementioned variables, accompanied by a p-value that stood resolutely below the hallowed threshold of 0.01. The implications of this discovery are as staggering as the maneuverability of a sleek motorcycle navigating a winding road.
Our findings not only challenge conventional wisdom and traditional econometric models but also pose a fascinating puzzle to be unraveled in the vast tapestry of financial analysis. The impact of the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine on the performance of FedEx's stock is an unexpected narrative woven through the fabric of market dynamics, with twists and turns that defy the conventional logic of cause and effect. In the following sections, we embark on a journey to dissect this quirky association, teasing out the threads that may reveal the colorful tapestry intertwining these disparate elements.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The data analysis revealed an astonishingly high correlation between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX) for the period from 2003 to 2022. The correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 suggests a remarkably strong positive linear relationship between the two variables. This correlation is akin to finding a motorcycle in a FedEx delivery package – unexpected and intriguing.

Furthermore, the coefficient of determination (r-squared) of 0.8335748 indicates that approximately 83.36% of the variability in FedEx's stock price can be explained by the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine. This finding certainly revs up our curiosity and raises more questions than it answers.

The p-value of less than 0.01 adds a cherry on top of this statistical sundae, providing strong evidence against the null hypothesis of no relationship between these seemingly unrelated variables. These results lead us to surmise that there might indeed be some underlying mechanism or force at play, which connects the demand for motorcycle mechanics in Maine with the performance of FedEx's stock.

Given the striking statistical findings, it's as if a hidden highway has been unveiled, weaving the seemingly separate realms of motorcycle mechanics and stock prices into a single, interconnected thoroughfare. This unusual correlation is beautifully depicted in Figure 1, where the scatterplot unequivocally illustrates the covariation between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price. It's like witnessing a surprise fusion of oil and parcel – a statistical conundrum that tickles the cognitive gears.

These unexpected results launch us into uncharted territory, beckoning for deeper exploration and scrutiny. The implications of this peculiar relationship extend beyond statistical fancy, offering a departure from traditional economic analyses and a delightful detour into the realm of quirky market dynamics. The striking correlation between motorcycle mechanics and FedEx's stock price not only raises eyebrows but also adds an exhilarating twist to the landscape of financial research. Further investigation into the underlying mechanisms driving this unforeseen connection promises to unveil a richer understanding of market dynamics, all while adding a dash of motorcycle charm to the world of stock 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 The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price (FDX). Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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]]
Tireless Travels and Stock Revs: An Investigation into the Link between the Number of Motorcycle Mechanics in Maine and FedEx's Stock Price (FDX)

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the unexpected and potentially revving up relationship between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX). Despite the seemingly far-fetched connection, our research team utilized data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) to rigorously analyze this intriguing correlation. Our findings reveal a surprisingly high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2003 to 2022. This unexpected and inexplicably tight relationship between such seemingly unrelated variables presents an enigma that begs for further examination. We aim to shed light on this quirky association, offering new perspectives on the potential influence of motorcycle mechanics on the performance of this shipping giant's stock.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
Smith (2010) set the stage for our investigation by uncovering the surprising impact of seemingly unrelated factors on stock prices. In their study, they found that variables such as weather patterns, celebrity divorces, and even the number of chocolate chip cookies consumed in a given quarter could influence stock market movements. This groundbreaking work challenged traditional economic theories and paved the way for our exploration of the connection between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price.
Building on this foundation, Doe (2015) delved into the world of niche industries and their potential influence on stock market dynamics. Although their research primarily focused on the effect of artisanal cheese production on the Dow Jones Industrial Average, the underlying premise resonates with our current inquiry. Just as the artisanal cheese market exerts its subtle yet perceptible impact on stock prices, our investigation posits a similar phenomenon in the context of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx.
Jones (2018) expanded the scope of unconventional market indicators by exploring the intersection of peculiar professions and stock valuation. Their analysis uncovered a surprising correlation between the number of professional unicyclists in urban areas and the performance of transportation sector stocks. Although their research did not directly intersect with our specific inquiry, it hints at the uncharted territory of offbeat occupational influences on financial markets.
Moving beyond the traditional realm of academic research, the works of "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" (Pirsig, 1974) and "The Motorcycle Diaries" (Guevara, 1993) offer nuanced perspectives on the cultural significance of motorcycles and their role in shaping individual journeys. While these literary masterpieces do not provide empirical evidence of stock market correlations, they provide a rich backdrop for our exploration of the broader societal impact of motorcycle culture, which may indirectly influence market dynamics in ways yet to be fully understood.
In a surprising turn of events, the internet meme "Distracted Boyfriend" (2017) gained unexpected relevance to our investigation when a playful reinterpretation emerged, featuring a befuddled investor gazing longingly at a motorcycle mechanic while neglecting the FedEx stock price chart. This humorous twist underscored the pervasive nature of our research topic and the whimsical connections that can emerge in the digital sphere.
As we navigate this unconventional terrain of academic inquiry, we embrace the unexpected and the unexplored, recognizing that the intersection of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx holds untold potential for illuminating the intricate fabric of market dynamics.

[[RESULTS]]
The data analysis revealed an astonishingly high correlation between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX) for the period from 2003 to 2022. The correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 suggests a remarkably strong positive linear relationship between the two variables. This correlation is akin to finding a motorcycle in a FedEx delivery package – unexpected and intriguing.
Furthermore, the coefficient of determination (r-squared) of 0.8335748 indicates that approximately 83.36% of the variability in FedEx's stock price can be explained by the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine. This finding certainly revs up our curiosity and raises more questions than it answers.
The p-value of less than 0.01 adds a cherry on top of this statistical sundae, providing strong evidence against the null hypothesis of no relationship between these seemingly unrelated variables. These results lead us to surmise that there might indeed be some underlying mechanism or force at play, which connects the demand for motorcycle mechanics in Maine with the performance of FedEx's stock.
Given the striking statistical findings, it's as if a hidden highway has been unveiled, weaving the seemingly separate realms of motorcycle mechanics and stock prices into a single, interconnected thoroughfare. This unusual correlation is beautifully depicted in Figure 1, where the scatterplot unequivocally illustrates the covariation between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price. It's like witnessing a surprise fusion of oil and parcel – a statistical conundrum that tickles the cognitive gears.
These unexpected results launch us into uncharted territory, beckoning for deeper exploration and scrutiny. The implications of this peculiar relationship extend beyond statistical fancy, offering a departure from traditional economic analyses and a delightful detour into the realm of quirky market dynamics. The striking correlation between motorcycle mechanics and FedEx's stock price not only raises eyebrows but also adds an exhilarating twist to the landscape of financial research. Further investigation into the underlying mechanisms driving this unforeseen connection promises to unveil a richer understanding of market dynamics, all while adding a dash of motorcycle charm to the world of stock analysis.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our findings have uncovered a remarkable correlation between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX). It seems that these seemingly unrelated variables have joined the ranks of other quirky and whimsical indicators that have shown unexpected connections to stock market movements. As we peruse the academic literature, it becomes clear that our investigation, although seemingly unconventional, is actually in good company when compared to the research on diverse and offbeat market indicators.

The study by Smith (2010) paved the way for our inquiry by demonstrating how variables as diverse as weather patterns, celebrity divorces, and even the consumption of chocolate chip cookies could influence stock market movements. While these findings may have initially seemed far-fetched, they have since been supported by a plethora of research, and our study on the link between motorcycle mechanics and FedEx's stock price aligns with this unconventional but increasingly validated line of inquiry. Furthermore, the work of Doe (2015) on the effect of artisanal cheese production on stock prices encourages us to embrace the potential impact of niche industries on market dynamics, echoing the unexpected connection we have uncovered in our research.

Taking a step back from the academic realm, we also note the unexpected relevance of the internet meme "Distracted Boyfriend" (2017) to our investigation, serving as a lighthearted reminder of the surprising connections that can arise in the digital world. This whimsical instance of a playful reinterpretation highlighting the motorcycle mechanic's allure speaks to the playful and unexpected nature of our research topic.

Building on these precedents, our findings not only validate the uncharted territory of atypical market indicators but also push the boundaries further to unveil a surprising correlation between the demand for motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the performance of FedEx's stock. It has become abundantly clear that these unexpected relationships not only pique scholarly curiosity but also offer meaningful insights into the complex tapestry of market dynamics. Furthermore, the statistical significance of our findings provides compelling evidence for the presence of a tangible connection, akin to finding a well-oiled engine that seamlessly fits into the framework of stock market analysis.

Our research has the potential to open up new avenues for theoretical and empirical inquiry, expanding the scope of market analysis to encompass unexplored and unconventional indicators. The unexpected correlation we have unearthed challenges traditional economic paradigms and offers a fresh, if not slightly whimsical, perspective on the intricate interplay of market forces. While our observations may initially raise eyebrows, they ultimately contribute to the colorful mosaic of market research, adding a dash of motorcycle charm to the otherwise serious world of stock analysis. This peculiar correlation between motorcycle mechanics and FedEx's stock price not only advances the frontiers of statistical investigation but also infuses a delightful spirit of curiosity and surprise into the landscape of financial research.


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 The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price (FDX). Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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]]
Tireless Travels and Stock Revs: An Investigation into the Link between the Number of Motorcycle Mechanics in Maine and FedEx's Stock Price (FDX)

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper delves into the unexpected and potentially revving up relationship between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX). Despite the seemingly far-fetched connection, our research team utilized data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) to rigorously analyze this intriguing correlation. Our findings reveal a surprisingly high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2003 to 2022. This unexpected and inexplicably tight relationship between such seemingly unrelated variables presents an enigma that begs for further examination. We aim to shed light on this quirky association, offering new perspectives on the potential influence of motorcycle mechanics on the performance of this shipping giant's stock.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
In the intricate web of financial markets, where patterns and correlations are diligently sought after like precious hidden treasures, the most unexpected of connections can often materialize. One such seemingly unlikely link has caught the attention of our research team: the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the fluctuating tides of FedEx's stock price (FDX). While one might initially dismiss this correlation as an oddity of statistical noise, our rigorous analysis has unearthed a relationship that demands attention.
The idea that the booming or dwindling population of motorcycle mechanics in the northeastern state of Maine could have any bearing on the performance of a multinational shipping and logistics corporation might indeed strike one as a stretch. However, as with any enigma, our curiosity was piqued, and we delved into the world of data, economics, and, unexpectedly, the vibrant community of motorcycle enthusiasts and repair specialists. The journey was filled with unexpected twists and turns, much like the highways and byways traversed by the dedicated mechanics in question.
As the engines of our statistical models roared to life, we were met with a surprising sight: a correlation coefficient that could make even the most seasoned Wall Street analyst raise an eyebrow. The figures spoke for themselves, revealing a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 between the aforementioned variables, accompanied by a p-value that stood resolutely below the hallowed threshold of 0.01. The implications of this discovery are as staggering as the maneuverability of a sleek motorcycle navigating a winding road.
Our findings not only challenge conventional wisdom and traditional econometric models but also pose a fascinating puzzle to be unraveled in the vast tapestry of financial analysis. The impact of the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine on the performance of FedEx's stock is an unexpected narrative woven through the fabric of market dynamics, with twists and turns that defy the conventional logic of cause and effect. In the following sections, we embark on a journey to dissect this quirky association, teasing out the threads that may reveal the colorful tapestry intertwining these disparate elements.

[[RESULTS]]
The data analysis revealed an astonishingly high correlation between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX) for the period from 2003 to 2022. The correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 suggests a remarkably strong positive linear relationship between the two variables. This correlation is akin to finding a motorcycle in a FedEx delivery package – unexpected and intriguing.
Furthermore, the coefficient of determination (r-squared) of 0.8335748 indicates that approximately 83.36% of the variability in FedEx's stock price can be explained by the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine. This finding certainly revs up our curiosity and raises more questions than it answers.
The p-value of less than 0.01 adds a cherry on top of this statistical sundae, providing strong evidence against the null hypothesis of no relationship between these seemingly unrelated variables. These results lead us to surmise that there might indeed be some underlying mechanism or force at play, which connects the demand for motorcycle mechanics in Maine with the performance of FedEx's stock.
Given the striking statistical findings, it's as if a hidden highway has been unveiled, weaving the seemingly separate realms of motorcycle mechanics and stock prices into a single, interconnected thoroughfare. This unusual correlation is beautifully depicted in Figure 1, where the scatterplot unequivocally illustrates the covariation between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and FedEx's stock price. It's like witnessing a surprise fusion of oil and parcel – a statistical conundrum that tickles the cognitive gears.
These unexpected results launch us into uncharted territory, beckoning for deeper exploration and scrutiny. The implications of this peculiar relationship extend beyond statistical fancy, offering a departure from traditional economic analyses and a delightful detour into the realm of quirky market dynamics. The striking correlation between motorcycle mechanics and FedEx's stock price not only raises eyebrows but also adds an exhilarating twist to the landscape of financial research. Further investigation into the underlying mechanisms driving this unforeseen connection promises to unveil a richer understanding of market dynamics, all while adding a dash of motorcycle charm to the world of stock analysis.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, the unexpected and seemingly improbable correlation between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX) has left us in awe of the statistical forces at play. The remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 and the p-value of less than 0.01 have surely redefined our understanding of the interplay between seemingly unrelated elements in the financial arena. It's as if we stumbled upon an unexpected shortcut that bypasses the conventional pathways of economic analysis, leading us into uncharted and colorful territories of market dynamics.

Our findings not only challenge conventional economic notions but also invite us to ponder the intricate dance of market forces in new and unconventional ways. The impact of motorcycle mechanics in Maine on the performance of FedEx's stock presents an enchanting riddle that beckons further exploration. It's akin to discovering a hidden gem in a sea of ordinary pebbles, a delightful surprise that tantalizes the intellect and invites a fresh perspective on financial analysis.

Thus, we assert with confidence that no further research in this area is needed - after all, why would anyone want to rein in the thrill of these unexpected statistical discoveries? We are left with the exhilarating sense that the unexpected and inexplicable correlation between two seemingly unrelated variables is one of the many charming quirks that make the world of financial analysis endlessly fascinating.


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 Tireless Travels and Stock Revs: An Investigation into the Link between the Number of Motorcycle Mechanics in Maine and FedEx's Stock Price (FDX). Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Quirky Economic Analysis


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 Tireless Travels and Stock Revs: An Investigation into the Link between the Number of Motorcycle Mechanics in Maine and FedEx's Stock Price (FDX). Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Association for Economic Analysis of Unconventional Correlations (AEAUC)


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 Tireless Travels and Stock Revs: An Investigation into the Link between the Number of Motorcycle Mechanics in Maine and FedEx's Stock Price (FDX) with an abstract of This paper delves into the unexpected and potentially revving up relationship between the number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine and the stock price of FedEx (FDX). Despite the seemingly far-fetched connection, our research team utilized data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) to rigorously analyze this intriguing correlation. Our findings reveal a surprisingly high correlation coefficient of 0.9130032 and a p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2003 to 2022. This unexpected and inexplicably tight relationship between such seemingly unrelated variables presents an enigma that begs for further examination. We aim to shed light on this quirky association, offering new perspectives on the potential influence of motorcycle mechanics on the performance of this shipping giant's stock.

ChatGPT:

motorcycle mechanics Maine, FedEx stock price correlation, Bureau of Labor Statistics data, LSEG Analytics, Refinitiv, correlation coefficient, p-value, 2003-2022 data, shipping industry stock performance

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



Random correlation

Discover a new correlation

View all correlations

View all research papers

Report an error


Data details

The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine
Detailed data title: BLS estimate of motorcycle mechanics in Maine
Source: Bureau of Larbor Statistics
See what else correlates with The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine

FedEx's stock price (FDX)
Detailed data title: Opening price of FedEx (FDX) on the first trading day of the year
Source: LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv)
Additional Info: Via Microsoft Excel Stockhistory function

See what else correlates with FedEx's stock price (FDX)

Correlation r = 0.9130032 (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 = 0.8335748 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 83.4% of the change in the one variable (i.e., FedEx's stock price (FDX)) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine) over the 20 years from 2003 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 2.0E-8. 0.0000000197029339069887650000
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 0.91 in 2.0E-6% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 50,753,863 random variables You don't actually need 50 million variables to find a correlation like this one. I don't have that many variables in my database. You can also correlate variables that are not independent. I do this a lot.

p-value calculations are useful for understanding the probability of a result happening by chance. They are most useful when used to highlight the risk of a fluke outcome. For example, if you calculate a p-value of 0.30, the risk that the result is a fluke is high. It is good to know that! But there are lots of ways to get a p-value of less than 0.01, as evidenced by this project.

In this particular case, the values are so extreme as to be meaningless. That's why no one reports p-values with specificity after they drop below 0.01.

Just to be clear: I'm being completely transparent about the calculations. There is no math trickery. This is just how statistics shakes out when you calculate hundreds of millions of random correlations.
with the same 19 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 19 because we have two variables measured over a period of 20 years. It's just the number of years minus ( the number of variables minus one ), which in this case simplifies to the number of years minus one.
you would randomly expect to find a correlation as strong as this one.

[ 0.79, 0.97 ] 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.
20032004200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022
The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine (Motorcycle Mechanics)4040140100100906080606070120140120160150130100210200
FedEx's stock price (FDX) (Stock price)54.3667.799.12103.38108.7588.5764.1684.2193.5485.4793.46142.9173.78146.41186.57250.83158.52152.42260.4259.8




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([40,40,140,100,100,90,60,80,60,60,70,120,140,120,160,150,130,100,210,200,])
array_2 = np.array([54.36,67.7,99.12,103.38,108.75,88.57,64.16,84.21,93.54,85.47,93.46,142.9,173.78,146.41,186.57,250.83,158.52,152.42,260.4,259.8,])
array_1_name = "The number of motorcycle mechanics in Maine"
array_2_name = "FedEx's stock price (FDX)"

# 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)



Reuseable content

You may re-use the images on this page for any purpose, even commercial purposes, without asking for permission. The only requirement is that you attribute Tyler Vigen. Attribution can take many different forms. If you leave the "tylervigen.com" link in the image, that satisfies it just fine. If you remove it and move it to a footnote, that's fine too. You can also just write "Charts courtesy of Tyler Vigen" at the bottom of an article.

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.

Full license details.
For more on re-use permissions, or to get a signed release form, see tylervigen.com/permission.

Download images for these variables:


View another random correlation

How fun was this correlation?

Your correlation inspection deserves a standing ovation!


Correlation ID: 3441 · Black Variable ID: 9019 · Red Variable ID: 1693
about · subscribe · emailme@tylervigen.com · twitter

CC BY 4.0