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Spurious correlation #4,008 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Popularity of the first name Walker and the second variable is Target's stock price (TGT).  The chart goes from 2002 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

With the rise in popularity of the name Walker, more babies were given this name. As a result, there was a sudden spike in demand for baby walkers. This unexpected surge in sales boosted Target's revenue, leading to an overall increase in their stock price. So, you could say that the name Walker really helped Target take some baby steps towards success!

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: [Futuristic] Generate an image of a vibrant, neon-lit nursery filled with a variety of sleek, technologically advanced baby products displayed on floating shelves. In the foreground, parents are reaching eagerly for the products, which are adorned with the name "Walker," while in the background, a holographic stock ticker displays the rising price of Target's stock (TGT) as demand for Walker-branded baby items surges. The scene should exude a sense of advanced technology and heightened consumer excitement. 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: Popularity of the first name Walker and Target's stock price (TGT). 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: Brutalism Cutsy art illustration Psychedelic Voxel art Futuristic
ChatGPT: Futuristic

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 Popularity of the first name Walker and Target's stock price (TGT), in the following situation: Because as the popularity of the name Walker increased, more parents named their kids after walkers, boosting demand for baby products at Target and driving the stock price up.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a colorful nursery, a row of shelves at Target is stocked with baby products, such as diapers, toys, and strollers, all adorned with the name "Walker." The items are flying off the shelves, as parents eagerly reach for them. Meanwhile, in the background, a stock ticker shows Target's stock price (TGT) steadily rising as the demand for these Walker-branded baby products surges.

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: [ Futuristic ] and depicting this scene: In a colorful nursery, a row of shelves at Target is stocked with baby products, such as diapers, toys, and strollers, all adorned with the name "Walker." The items are flying off the shelves, as parents eagerly reach for them. Meanwhile, in the background, a stock ticker shows Target's stock price (TGT) steadily rising as the demand for these Walker-branded baby products surges. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: [Futuristic] Generate an image of a vibrant, neon-lit nursery filled with a variety of sleek, technologically advanced baby products displayed on floating shelves. In the foreground, parents are reaching eagerly for the products, which are adorned with the name "Walker," while in the background, a holographic stock ticker displays the rising price of Target's stock (TGT) as demand for Walker-branded baby items surges. The scene should exude a sense of advanced technology and heightened consumer excitement.

*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 Popularity of the first name Walker caused Target's stock price (TGT) to increase.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Walkering through Stock Prices: The Surprising Link Between the Name 'Walker' and Target's TGT Stock

The Journal of Financial Semantics

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 Popularity of the first name Walker and Target's stock price (TGT). Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Make the title seem clever.

Your research team used data from US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.9679244 and p < 0.01 for 2002 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]]
"Walkering through Stock Prices: The Surprising Link Between the Name 'Walker' and Target's TGT Stock"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper presents a novel investigation into the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of the retail giant Target Corporation (TGT). Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we conducted a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 2002 to 2022. Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a compelling association between the two seemingly unrelated variables. Intriguingly, as the name "Walker" gained traction in society, demonstrating a certain cultural ascendancy, Target's stock price appeared to mirror this trend. The implications of our results are not only thought-provoking but also, dare we say, "walk-tacular." We conclude with a discussion of potential causal mechanisms, as well as avenues for further research on the intersection of nomenclature and financial markets.


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 Popularity of the first name Walker and Target's stock price (TGT). 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]]
"Walkering through Stock Prices: The Surprising Link Between the Name 'Walker' and Target's TGT Stock"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper presents a novel investigation into the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of the retail giant Target Corporation (TGT). Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we conducted a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 2002 to 2022. Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a compelling association between the two seemingly unrelated variables. Intriguingly, as the name "Walker" gained traction in society, demonstrating a certain cultural ascendancy, Target's stock price appeared to mirror this trend. The implications of our results are not only thought-provoking but also, dare we say, "walk-tacular." We conclude with a discussion of potential causal mechanisms, as well as avenues for further research on the intersection of nomenclature and financial markets.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The relationship between names and their impact on various aspects of life has been a topic of curiosity for generations. From the ancient practice of numerology to the modern-day fascination with celebrity baby names, the influence of nomenclature is undeniably pervasive. In the realm of finance, however, the notion that a person's name could have any bearing on stock prices might seem far-fetched, if not downright preposterous. Yet, as we dive into the empirical investigation presented herein, we invite our esteemed readers to suspend their disbelief and embark on a journey that traverses the domains of linguistics, sociology, and financial markets.

The target of our scrutiny – pun intended – is none other than the retail behemoth, Target Corporation (TGT), a ubiquitous presence in the lives of many consumers. Examining the company's stock performance over the past two decades, we were struck by a peculiar revelation – the curious correlation between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the fluctuations in Target's stock price. Yes, you read that correctly - the whims of the stock market appear to be intertwined with the ebb and flow of a particular moniker.

While such an association may appear to belong in the realm of arcane superstitions, our rigorous analysis reveals a statistical relationship that demands attention. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we meticulously scrutinized the trajectories of both "Walker" and TGT over the years spanning from 2002 to 2022. The resultant correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, coupled with a p-value insignificantly less than 0.01, provides compelling evidence for a link between the two variables.

The implications of these findings extend beyond the confines of mere curiosity. As we tread through the liminal space where personal nomenclature meets market dynamics, we are compelled to ponder the potential mechanisms underpinning this correlation. Could the rising prominence of the name "Walker" be serving as a prescient harbinger of Target's financial fortunes? Is there a mysterious force at play, guiding investors' sentiments through the enigmatic channels of onomastics and stock indices? These questions, while intriguing, beckon further investigation, igniting our scholarly curiosity and setting the stage for an engaging discourse on the interplay of language, culture, and economic phenomena.

In the following sections of this paper, we delve into the intricacies of our analysis, contemplating the possible theoretical underpinnings of this surprising association. As we navigate through the enthusiasm and skepticism that our findings may evoke, we invite our readers to join us in this captivating exploration of the "Walkering" influence in the realm of stock prices.


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 Popularity of the first name Walker and Target's stock price (TGT). Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

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

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

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Walkering through Stock Prices: The Surprising Link Between the Name 'Walker' and Target's TGT Stock"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper presents a novel investigation into the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of the retail giant Target Corporation (TGT). Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we conducted a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 2002 to 2022. Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a compelling association between the two seemingly unrelated variables. Intriguingly, as the name "Walker" gained traction in society, demonstrating a certain cultural ascendancy, Target's stock price appeared to mirror this trend. The implications of our results are not only thought-provoking but also, dare we say, "walk-tacular." We conclude with a discussion of potential causal mechanisms, as well as avenues for further research on the intersection of nomenclature and financial markets.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The relationship between names and their impact on various aspects of life has been a topic of curiosity for generations. From the ancient practice of numerology to the modern-day fascination with celebrity baby names, the influence of nomenclature is undeniably pervasive. In the realm of finance, however, the notion that a person's name could have any bearing on stock prices might seem far-fetched, if not downright preposterous. Yet, as we dive into the empirical investigation presented herein, we invite our esteemed readers to suspend their disbelief and embark on a journey that traverses the domains of linguistics, sociology, and financial markets.
The target of our scrutiny – pun intended – is none other than the retail behemoth, Target Corporation (TGT), a ubiquitous presence in the lives of many consumers. Examining the company's stock performance over the past two decades, we were struck by a peculiar revelation – the curious correlation between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the fluctuations in Target's stock price. Yes, you read that correctly - the whims of the stock market appear to be intertwined with the ebb and flow of a particular moniker.
While such an association may appear to belong in the realm of arcane superstitions, our rigorous analysis reveals a statistical relationship that demands attention. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we meticulously scrutinized the trajectories of both "Walker" and TGT over the years spanning from 2002 to 2022. The resultant correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, coupled with a p-value insignificantly less than 0.01, provides compelling evidence for a link between the two variables.
The implications of these findings extend beyond the confines of mere curiosity. As we tread through the liminal space where personal nomenclature meets market dynamics, we are compelled to ponder the potential mechanisms underpinning this correlation. Could the rising prominence of the name "Walker" be serving as a prescient harbinger of Target's financial fortunes? Is there a mysterious force at play, guiding investors' sentiments through the enigmatic channels of onomastics and stock indices? These questions, while intriguing, beckon further investigation, igniting our scholarly curiosity and setting the stage for an engaging discourse on the interplay of language, culture, and economic phenomena.
In the following sections of this paper, we delve into the intricacies of our analysis, contemplating the possible theoretical underpinnings of this surprising association. As we navigate through the enthusiasm and skepticism that our findings may evoke, we invite our readers to join us in this captivating exploration of the "Walkering" influence in the realm of stock prices.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The connection between human names and their potential impact on various aspects of life has been a subject of interest for scholars across a myriad of disciplines. While the purported influence of names on financial phenomena may initially appear dubious, the literature offers intriguing insights into the potential significance of nomenclature in unexpected domains.

Early studies by Smith et al. (2010) and Doe (2012) delved into the psychological implications of names and their influence on individual behavior and self-perception. These studies revealed that individuals often experience a subtle yet perceptible effect of their own names on their attitudes and decision-making processes. Jones (2015) extended this line of inquiry, exploring the sociocultural connotations attached to specific names and their resonance within societal contexts.

Venturing beyond the realm of personal nomenclature, the work of Lorem and Ipsum (2018) traversed into the domain of brand names and their impact on consumer behavior. This study uncovered the intricate ways in which the phonetics and phonology of brand names could subconsciously sway consumer preferences, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of linguistic influence in commercial settings.

As we pivot to the financial sphere, the existing literature has primarily focused on traditional economic indicators and market dynamics. However, the groundbreaking work of "The Name Game: How Baby Names Drive Consumer Choices" (2007) and "The Power of a Name: A Linguistic Approach to Financial Markets" (2014) offers a unique perspective on the interplay between names and consumer behavior. These works shed light on the potential effects of names on consumer sentiment and brand perception, hinting at the nuanced role of nomenclature in shaping market trends.

In a departure from the conventional scholarly sources, our investigation also draws inspiration from a diverse array of literary and pop culture references that echo the themes of names and their influence. "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho and "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald both contemplate the symbolic resonance of names and their metaphorical significance in the context of individual destinies. Meanwhile, children's shows such as "Dora the Explorer" and "Paw Patrol" inadvertently offer anecdotal glimpses into the societal popularity of certain names, imparting a whimsical touch to our scholarly pursuits.

As we set the stage for our empirical inquiry into the nexus of the name "Walker" and Target's stock price, we draw on this rich tapestry of scholarly and cultural discourse to infuse our exploration with a multidimensional lens. In doing so, we aim to unravel the profound, and perhaps even whimsical, dynamics underlying the surprising link between nomenclature and financial markets.


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 Popularity of the first name Walker and Target's stock price (TGT). 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 US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) . You used data from 2002 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]]
"Walkering through Stock Prices: The Surprising Link Between the Name 'Walker' and Target's TGT Stock"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper presents a novel investigation into the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of the retail giant Target Corporation (TGT). Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we conducted a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 2002 to 2022. Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a compelling association between the two seemingly unrelated variables. Intriguingly, as the name "Walker" gained traction in society, demonstrating a certain cultural ascendancy, Target's stock price appeared to mirror this trend. The implications of our results are not only thought-provoking but also, dare we say, "walk-tacular." We conclude with a discussion of potential causal mechanisms, as well as avenues for further research on the intersection of nomenclature and financial markets.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The relationship between names and their impact on various aspects of life has been a topic of curiosity for generations. From the ancient practice of numerology to the modern-day fascination with celebrity baby names, the influence of nomenclature is undeniably pervasive. In the realm of finance, however, the notion that a person's name could have any bearing on stock prices might seem far-fetched, if not downright preposterous. Yet, as we dive into the empirical investigation presented herein, we invite our esteemed readers to suspend their disbelief and embark on a journey that traverses the domains of linguistics, sociology, and financial markets.
The target of our scrutiny – pun intended – is none other than the retail behemoth, Target Corporation (TGT), a ubiquitous presence in the lives of many consumers. Examining the company's stock performance over the past two decades, we were struck by a peculiar revelation – the curious correlation between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the fluctuations in Target's stock price. Yes, you read that correctly - the whims of the stock market appear to be intertwined with the ebb and flow of a particular moniker.
While such an association may appear to belong in the realm of arcane superstitions, our rigorous analysis reveals a statistical relationship that demands attention. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we meticulously scrutinized the trajectories of both "Walker" and TGT over the years spanning from 2002 to 2022. The resultant correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, coupled with a p-value insignificantly less than 0.01, provides compelling evidence for a link between the two variables.
The implications of these findings extend beyond the confines of mere curiosity. As we tread through the liminal space where personal nomenclature meets market dynamics, we are compelled to ponder the potential mechanisms underpinning this correlation. Could the rising prominence of the name "Walker" be serving as a prescient harbinger of Target's financial fortunes? Is there a mysterious force at play, guiding investors' sentiments through the enigmatic channels of onomastics and stock indices? These questions, while intriguing, beckon further investigation, igniting our scholarly curiosity and setting the stage for an engaging discourse on the interplay of language, culture, and economic phenomena.
In the following sections of this paper, we delve into the intricacies of our analysis, contemplating the possible theoretical underpinnings of this surprising association. As we navigate through the enthusiasm and skepticism that our findings may evoke, we invite our readers to join us in this captivating exploration of the "Walkering" influence in the realm of stock prices.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To embark on our investigation into the seemingly whimsical connection between the popularity of the name "Walker" and the stock price of Target Corporation (TGT), we employed a multifaceted research approach that melded linguistic data with financial metrics. Our inquiry spanned the years 2002 to 2022, encompassing a comprehensive dataset sourced from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv). With these sources as our compass, we navigated through the labyrinthine landscape of data analytics, poised to uncover the enigmatic relationship between nomenclature and market dynamics.

To commence, we adopted a diachronic lens, tracking the historical prevalence of the name "Walker" across time and geographical regions. Utilizing advanced algorithms to sift through an abundance of birth records, we meticulously charted the ascent of this moniker, understanding its cultural resurgence with a blend of fascination and bemusement. Concurrently, we delved into the financial indices, scrutinizing the ebbs and flows of Target's stock price with an analytical acumen that would make even the most astute investor nod in approval.

An integral aspect of our methodological approach involved the application of robust statistical techniques. Employing time series analysis and correlation measures, we sought to discern the underlying patterns that intertwined the popularity of "Walker" with TGT's stock price movements. We refrained from any assumptions of causality, remaining steadfast in our pursuit of empirical evidence that could withstand the rigor of academic scrutiny.

Moreover, to mitigate potential confounding variables and spurious correlations, we conducted meticulous sensitivity analyses, overlaying our primary findings with a tapestry of control measures. This allowed us to mitigate the specter of coincidental correlations and uphold the integrity of our results, ensuring that our conclusions reflected genuine statistical associations rather than whimsical happenstance.

Lastly, to complement our quantitative analyses, we engaged in qualitative explorations, delving into sociolinguistic theories and market sentiment dynamics to paint a comprehensive portrait of the interplay between personal nomenclature and stock prices. Through this interdisciplinary lens, we endeavored to unveil the cryptic mechanisms that underlie the curious alliance between the name "Walker" and Target's financial performance, enriching our study with a depth that transcends conventional statistical inquiry.


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 Popularity of the first name Walker and Target's stock price (TGT). 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 US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv) .

For the time period 2002 to 2022, you found a correlation 0.9679244, r-squared of 0.9368776, 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]]
"Walkering through Stock Prices: The Surprising Link Between the Name 'Walker' and Target's TGT Stock"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper presents a novel investigation into the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of the retail giant Target Corporation (TGT). Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we conducted a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 2002 to 2022. Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a compelling association between the two seemingly unrelated variables. Intriguingly, as the name "Walker" gained traction in society, demonstrating a certain cultural ascendancy, Target's stock price appeared to mirror this trend. The implications of our results are not only thought-provoking but also, dare we say, "walk-tacular." We conclude with a discussion of potential causal mechanisms, as well as avenues for further research on the intersection of nomenclature and financial markets.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The relationship between names and their impact on various aspects of life has been a topic of curiosity for generations. From the ancient practice of numerology to the modern-day fascination with celebrity baby names, the influence of nomenclature is undeniably pervasive. In the realm of finance, however, the notion that a person's name could have any bearing on stock prices might seem far-fetched, if not downright preposterous. Yet, as we dive into the empirical investigation presented herein, we invite our esteemed readers to suspend their disbelief and embark on a journey that traverses the domains of linguistics, sociology, and financial markets.
The target of our scrutiny – pun intended – is none other than the retail behemoth, Target Corporation (TGT), a ubiquitous presence in the lives of many consumers. Examining the company's stock performance over the past two decades, we were struck by a peculiar revelation – the curious correlation between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the fluctuations in Target's stock price. Yes, you read that correctly - the whims of the stock market appear to be intertwined with the ebb and flow of a particular moniker.
While such an association may appear to belong in the realm of arcane superstitions, our rigorous analysis reveals a statistical relationship that demands attention. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we meticulously scrutinized the trajectories of both "Walker" and TGT over the years spanning from 2002 to 2022. The resultant correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, coupled with a p-value insignificantly less than 0.01, provides compelling evidence for a link between the two variables.
The implications of these findings extend beyond the confines of mere curiosity. As we tread through the liminal space where personal nomenclature meets market dynamics, we are compelled to ponder the potential mechanisms underpinning this correlation. Could the rising prominence of the name "Walker" be serving as a prescient harbinger of Target's financial fortunes? Is there a mysterious force at play, guiding investors' sentiments through the enigmatic channels of onomastics and stock indices? These questions, while intriguing, beckon further investigation, igniting our scholarly curiosity and setting the stage for an engaging discourse on the interplay of language, culture, and economic phenomena.
In the following sections of this paper, we delve into the intricacies of our analysis, contemplating the possible theoretical underpinnings of this surprising association. As we navigate through the enthusiasm and skepticism that our findings may evoke, we invite our readers to join us in this captivating exploration of the "Walkering" influence in the realm of stock prices.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The results of our analysis reveal a remarkably strong correlation between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of Target Corporation (TGT). We found a correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, indicating a robust positive relationship between the two variables. Furthermore, the r-squared value of 0.9368776 signifies that a substantial portion of the variability in Target's stock price can be explained by the popularity of the name "Walker." The p-value of less than 0.01 suggests that this correlation is statistically significant, leading us to reject the null hypothesis of no association between the two variables. As such, our findings provide compelling evidence of a meaningful connection between the ascendancy of the name "Walker" and the fluctuations in Target's stock price.

The strength of the association is visually depicted in Figure 1, where the scatterplot showcases the tight clustering of data points, affirming the pronounced correlation between the popularity of the name "Walker" and Target's stock price. The figure serves as a visually convincing testament to the striking relationship uncovered in our analysis.

The implications of these findings are nothing short of intriguing, offering a departure from conventional perspectives on the drivers of stock price movements. As we navigate through the labyrinth of financial markets and the enigmatic tendrils of cultural phenomena, the unexpected link between a name and a stock symbol beckons further exploration and contemplation. Whether this association is merely an amusing coincidence or harbors deeper insights into the intertwining of personal nomenclature and market dynamics is a tantalizing question that warrants deeper investigation.

In conclusion, our research underscores the unexpected influence of the name "Walker" on the stock price of Target Corporation (TGT), shedding light on an uncharted intersection of linguistic trends and financial markets. The implications of this connection extend beyond the realms of traditional economic analysis, igniting a spark of curiosity and inviting further discourse on the role of names in shaping market behavior. We hope our findings will inspire a "Walker" through the intriguing landscape of nomenclature's potential impact on stock prices, paving the way for future explorations in this captivating domain.


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 Popularity of the first name Walker and Target's stock price (TGT). 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]]
"Walkering through Stock Prices: The Surprising Link Between the Name 'Walker' and Target's TGT Stock"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper presents a novel investigation into the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of the retail giant Target Corporation (TGT). Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we conducted a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 2002 to 2022. Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a compelling association between the two seemingly unrelated variables. Intriguingly, as the name "Walker" gained traction in society, demonstrating a certain cultural ascendancy, Target's stock price appeared to mirror this trend. The implications of our results are not only thought-provoking but also, dare we say, "walk-tacular." We conclude with a discussion of potential causal mechanisms, as well as avenues for further research on the intersection of nomenclature and financial markets.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The connection between human names and their potential impact on various aspects of life has been a subject of interest for scholars across a myriad of disciplines. While the purported influence of names on financial phenomena may initially appear dubious, the literature offers intriguing insights into the potential significance of nomenclature in unexpected domains.
Early studies by Smith et al. (2010) and Doe (2012) delved into the psychological implications of names and their influence on individual behavior and self-perception. These studies revealed that individuals often experience a subtle yet perceptible effect of their own names on their attitudes and decision-making processes. Jones (2015) extended this line of inquiry, exploring the sociocultural connotations attached to specific names and their resonance within societal contexts.
Venturing beyond the realm of personal nomenclature, the work of Lorem and Ipsum (2018) traversed into the domain of brand names and their impact on consumer behavior. This study uncovered the intricate ways in which the phonetics and phonology of brand names could subconsciously sway consumer preferences, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of linguistic influence in commercial settings.
As we pivot to the financial sphere, the existing literature has primarily focused on traditional economic indicators and market dynamics. However, the groundbreaking work of "The Name Game: How Baby Names Drive Consumer Choices" (2007) and "The Power of a Name: A Linguistic Approach to Financial Markets" (2014) offers a unique perspective on the interplay between names and consumer behavior. These works shed light on the potential effects of names on consumer sentiment and brand perception, hinting at the nuanced role of nomenclature in shaping market trends.
In a departure from the conventional scholarly sources, our investigation also draws inspiration from a diverse array of literary and pop culture references that echo the themes of names and their influence. "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho and "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald both contemplate the symbolic resonance of names and their metaphorical significance in the context of individual destinies. Meanwhile, children's shows such as "Dora the Explorer" and "Paw Patrol" inadvertently offer anecdotal glimpses into the societal popularity of certain names, imparting a whimsical touch to our scholarly pursuits.
As we set the stage for our empirical inquiry into the nexus of the name "Walker" and Target's stock price, we draw on this rich tapestry of scholarly and cultural discourse to infuse our exploration with a multidimensional lens. In doing so, we aim to unravel the profound, and perhaps even whimsical, dynamics underlying the surprising link between nomenclature and financial markets.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our analysis reveal a remarkably strong correlation between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of Target Corporation (TGT). We found a correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, indicating a robust positive relationship between the two variables. Furthermore, the r-squared value of 0.9368776 signifies that a substantial portion of the variability in Target's stock price can be explained by the popularity of the name "Walker." The p-value of less than 0.01 suggests that this correlation is statistically significant, leading us to reject the null hypothesis of no association between the two variables. As such, our findings provide compelling evidence of a meaningful connection between the ascendancy of the name "Walker" and the fluctuations in Target's stock price.
The strength of the association is visually depicted in Figure 1, where the scatterplot showcases the tight clustering of data points, affirming the pronounced correlation between the popularity of the name "Walker" and Target's stock price. The figure serves as a visually convincing testament to the striking relationship uncovered in our analysis.
The implications of these findings are nothing short of intriguing, offering a departure from conventional perspectives on the drivers of stock price movements. As we navigate through the labyrinth of financial markets and the enigmatic tendrils of cultural phenomena, the unexpected link between a name and a stock symbol beckons further exploration and contemplation. Whether this association is merely an amusing coincidence or harbors deeper insights into the intertwining of personal nomenclature and market dynamics is a tantalizing question that warrants deeper investigation.
In conclusion, our research underscores the unexpected influence of the name "Walker" on the stock price of Target Corporation (TGT), shedding light on an uncharted intersection of linguistic trends and financial markets. The implications of this connection extend beyond the realms of traditional economic analysis, igniting a spark of curiosity and inviting further discourse on the role of names in shaping market behavior. We hope our findings will inspire a "Walker" through the intriguing landscape of nomenclature's potential impact on stock prices, paving the way for future explorations in this captivating domain.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The findings of our empirical analysis provide compelling evidence of a strong and statistically significant correlation between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of Target Corporation (TGT). These results not only bolster the growing body of research on the influence of nomenclature in unexpected domains but also offer a whimsical exploration of the intertwined nuances between personal names and market dynamics. The robust correlation coefficient of 0.9679244 underscores the striking relationship uncovered in our study, lending credence to the notion that the ascendancy of the name "Walker" resonates within the fluctuations of Target's stock price.

Our investigation, while initially rooted in a lighthearted curiosity, has illuminated a fascinating dimension of linguistic influence on financial markets. The apparent resonance between the popularity of "Walker" and TGT's stock price invokes both intrigue and amusement, inviting contemplation on the potential mechanisms underpinning this unexpected association. Building upon the playful undertones of our earlier literature review, it is worth considering the possibility of a "market name-dropping effect," wherein the prevalence of a particular name in society inadvertently amplifies its symbolic weight, subtly permeating consumer sentiment and, by extension, market dynamics. This tongue-in-cheek notion, intermingled with a tinge of scholarly pondering, underscores the multidimensional nature of our inquiry.

Moreover, our results align with prior research that has explored the influence of names on consumer behavior and market trends. Smith et al. (2010) and Doe (2012) laid the groundwork for understanding the psychological implications of names, hinting at the subtle yet perceptible effects of nomenclature on individual attitudes. In a parallel vein, "The Name Game: How Baby Names Drive Consumer Choices" (2007) and "The Power of a Name: A Linguistic Approach to Financial Markets" (2014) paved the way for considering the potential effects of names on consumer sentiment and brand perception. While the connection between the first name "Walker" and TGT's stock price may seem, on the surface, to be a whimsical coincidence, our findings lend empirical support to the notion that nomenclature exerts subtle yet discernible influences across multifaceted domains, including the realm of financial markets.

On a more lighthearted note, one cannot help but appreciate the quirky yet endearing nature of our inquiry. As we wade through the data and embrace the statistical intricacies, we are reminded of the delightful unpredictability nestled within the otherwise regimented world of empirical analysis. The unexpected allure of discovering a seemingly improbable link between a name and a stock symbol, akin to stumbling upon a hidden treasure in the labyrinth of data, imparts a charming touch to our scholarly pursuit. The serendipitous overlap of academic rigor and whimsy encapsulates the essence of our investigation, inviting a playful curiosity amidst the rigors of scholarly discourse.

In light of these findings, our study engenders an open invitation for further research and jovial contemplation on the potential ramifications of personal nomenclature on market behavior. The question of whether the prominence of the name "Walker" merely coincides with the fluctuations in TGT's stock price or harbors deeper ramifications remains a tantalizing enigma. Our hope is that this unanticipated connection, woven through the fabric of linguistic and financial realms, will serve as a catalyst for future explorations, igniting a playful spirit of inquiry that transcends the traditional boundaries of economic analysis.

Undoubtedly, the unexpected and whimsical nature of our investigation compels one to tread the path of scholarly exploration with a wink and a nod, embracing the delightful interplay between linguistic quirks and market dynamics. As we embark on this "Walker" through the captivating landscape of names and stock prices, we are reminded that amidst the serious pursuit of knowledge, there is always room for a touch of scholarly levity and whimsy.



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 Popularity of the first name Walker and Target's stock price (TGT). 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]]
"Walkering through Stock Prices: The Surprising Link Between the Name 'Walker' and Target's TGT Stock"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper presents a novel investigation into the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of the retail giant Target Corporation (TGT). Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we conducted a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 2002 to 2022. Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a compelling association between the two seemingly unrelated variables. Intriguingly, as the name "Walker" gained traction in society, demonstrating a certain cultural ascendancy, Target's stock price appeared to mirror this trend. The implications of our results are not only thought-provoking but also, dare we say, "walk-tacular." We conclude with a discussion of potential causal mechanisms, as well as avenues for further research on the intersection of nomenclature and financial markets.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The relationship between names and their impact on various aspects of life has been a topic of curiosity for generations. From the ancient practice of numerology to the modern-day fascination with celebrity baby names, the influence of nomenclature is undeniably pervasive. In the realm of finance, however, the notion that a person's name could have any bearing on stock prices might seem far-fetched, if not downright preposterous. Yet, as we dive into the empirical investigation presented herein, we invite our esteemed readers to suspend their disbelief and embark on a journey that traverses the domains of linguistics, sociology, and financial markets.
The target of our scrutiny – pun intended – is none other than the retail behemoth, Target Corporation (TGT), a ubiquitous presence in the lives of many consumers. Examining the company's stock performance over the past two decades, we were struck by a peculiar revelation – the curious correlation between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the fluctuations in Target's stock price. Yes, you read that correctly - the whims of the stock market appear to be intertwined with the ebb and flow of a particular moniker.
While such an association may appear to belong in the realm of arcane superstitions, our rigorous analysis reveals a statistical relationship that demands attention. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we meticulously scrutinized the trajectories of both "Walker" and TGT over the years spanning from 2002 to 2022. The resultant correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, coupled with a p-value insignificantly less than 0.01, provides compelling evidence for a link between the two variables.
The implications of these findings extend beyond the confines of mere curiosity. As we tread through the liminal space where personal nomenclature meets market dynamics, we are compelled to ponder the potential mechanisms underpinning this correlation. Could the rising prominence of the name "Walker" be serving as a prescient harbinger of Target's financial fortunes? Is there a mysterious force at play, guiding investors' sentiments through the enigmatic channels of onomastics and stock indices? These questions, while intriguing, beckon further investigation, igniting our scholarly curiosity and setting the stage for an engaging discourse on the interplay of language, culture, and economic phenomena.
In the following sections of this paper, we delve into the intricacies of our analysis, contemplating the possible theoretical underpinnings of this surprising association. As we navigate through the enthusiasm and skepticism that our findings may evoke, we invite our readers to join us in this captivating exploration of the "Walkering" influence in the realm of stock prices.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our analysis reveal a remarkably strong correlation between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of Target Corporation (TGT). We found a correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, indicating a robust positive relationship between the two variables. Furthermore, the r-squared value of 0.9368776 signifies that a substantial portion of the variability in Target's stock price can be explained by the popularity of the name "Walker." The p-value of less than 0.01 suggests that this correlation is statistically significant, leading us to reject the null hypothesis of no association between the two variables. As such, our findings provide compelling evidence of a meaningful connection between the ascendancy of the name "Walker" and the fluctuations in Target's stock price.
The strength of the association is visually depicted in Figure 1, where the scatterplot showcases the tight clustering of data points, affirming the pronounced correlation between the popularity of the name "Walker" and Target's stock price. The figure serves as a visually convincing testament to the striking relationship uncovered in our analysis.
The implications of these findings are nothing short of intriguing, offering a departure from conventional perspectives on the drivers of stock price movements. As we navigate through the labyrinth of financial markets and the enigmatic tendrils of cultural phenomena, the unexpected link between a name and a stock symbol beckons further exploration and contemplation. Whether this association is merely an amusing coincidence or harbors deeper insights into the intertwining of personal nomenclature and market dynamics is a tantalizing question that warrants deeper investigation.
In conclusion, our research underscores the unexpected influence of the name "Walker" on the stock price of Target Corporation (TGT), shedding light on an uncharted intersection of linguistic trends and financial markets. The implications of this connection extend beyond the realms of traditional economic analysis, igniting a spark of curiosity and inviting further discourse on the role of names in shaping market behavior. We hope our findings will inspire a "Walker" through the intriguing landscape of nomenclature's potential impact on stock prices, paving the way for future explorations in this captivating domain.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In navigating the labyrinth of financial markets, our investigation into the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and Target Corporation's stock price has unearthed a correlation that is both surprising and statistically robust. The compelling correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, alongside a p-value less than 0.01, propels this seemingly whimsical association into the realm of empirical significance. Our findings present a "walk-tacular" revelation, challenging conventional notions of stock price determinants and beckoning further examination of the interplay between personal nomenclature and market dynamics.

The pronounced connection between the ascendancy of the name "Walker" and the fluctuations in Target's stock price sparks a curious juxtaposition, one where the nuances of linguistics intertwine with the ebb and flow of financial markets. The visual depiction of this relationship in Figure 1 serves as a testament to the tangible linkage, urging us to contemplate the potential mechanisms underpinning this unexpected correlation. Could it be that the name "Walker" is quietly shaping investor sentiments, walking its way through the ether of market psychology? While the prospect may seem like a far-fetched walk of the imagination, our rigorous analysis points to a statistical dance between nomenclature and market sentiments that merits scholarly attention.

As we draw the curtains on this "walkered" exploration, the implications of our findings beckon a chuckle through the alluring landscape of nomenclature's influence on stock prices. We are left to ponder the prospect of a "Walker effect" quietly treading through the halls of market behavior, perhaps whispering its name in the ears of astute investors. Yet, as we take these findings in stride, we assert that no further research is needed in this delightfully unexpected area of study. After all, sometimes a correlation is just a whimsical walk in the statistical park.

In the words of Robert Frost, "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less walked by, And that has made all the difference." And indeed, this "Walker" may have made all the statistical difference for Target's stock price.


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 Walkering through Stock Prices: The Surprising Link Between the Name 'Walker' and Target's TGT Stock. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Financial Semantics


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 Walkering through Stock Prices: The Surprising Link Between the Name 'Walker' and Target's TGT Stock. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for Linguistic and Economic Research


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 Walkering through Stock Prices: The Surprising Link Between the Name 'Walker' and Target's TGT Stock with an abstract of This paper presents a novel investigation into the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Walker" and the stock price of the retail giant Target Corporation (TGT). Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and LSEG Analytics (Refinitiv), we conducted a comprehensive analysis spanning the years 2002 to 2022. Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9679244, with a p-value less than 0.01, suggesting a compelling association between the two seemingly unrelated variables. Intriguingly, as the name "Walker" gained traction in society, demonstrating a certain cultural ascendancy, Target's stock price appeared to mirror this trend. The implications of our results are not only thought-provoking but also, dare we say, "walk-tacular." We conclude with a discussion of potential causal mechanisms, as well as avenues for further research on the intersection of nomenclature and financial markets.

ChatGPT:

"Walker name popularity, stock price correlation",
"Name 'Walker' societal ascendancy, Target stock price correlation",
"Social Security Administration data, stock price analysis",
"LSEG Analytics, Target Corporation stock price analysis",
"Causal mechanisms of name popularity on stock prices",
"Intersection of nomenclature and financial markets"

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



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Data details

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

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

See what else correlates with Target's stock price (TGT)

Correlation r = 0.9679244 (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 = 0.9368776 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 93.7% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Target's stock price (TGT)) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Popularity of the first name Walker) over the 21 years from 2002 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 7.4E-13. 0.0000000000007436466605997184
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme. More specifically the p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme if we had only tested one pair of variables one time.

But I am a p-villain. I absolutely did not test only one pair of variables one time. I correlated hundreds of millions of pairs of variables. I threw boatloads of data into an industrial-sized blender to find this correlation.

Who is going to stop me? p-value reporting doesn't require me to report how many calculations I had to go through in order to find a low p-value!
On average, you will find a correaltion as strong as 0.97 in 7.4E-11% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 1,344,724,656,188 random variables You don't actually need 1 trillion 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 20 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 20 because we have two variables measured over a period of 21 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.

[ 0.92, 0.99 ] 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.
200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022
Popularity of the first name Walker (Babies born)628638740812708609559595656686715857106410281062111913681675190729834389
Target's stock price (TGT) (Stock price)41.0530.438.4552.6755.5257.8550.0534.6448.4760.2651.8958.5763.5376.1171.8472.6665.9565.06128.74176.51231.07




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([628,638,740,812,708,609,559,595,656,686,715,857,1064,1028,1062,1119,1368,1675,1907,2983,4389,])
array_2 = np.array([41.05,30.4,38.45,52.67,55.52,57.85,50.05,34.64,48.47,60.26,51.89,58.57,63.53,76.11,71.84,72.66,65.95,65.06,128.74,176.51,231.07,])
array_1_name = "Popularity of the first name Walker"
array_2_name = "Target's stock price (TGT)"

# Perform the calculation
print(f"Calculating the correlation between {array_1_name} and {array_2_name}...")
correlation, r_squared, p_value = calculate_correlation(array_1, array_2)

# Print the results
print("Correlation Coefficient:", correlation)
print("R-squared:", r_squared)
print("P-value:", p_value)



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

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Correlation ID: 4008 · Black Variable ID: 2876 · Red Variable ID: 1711
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