Spurious correlation #5,284 · 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 'pepe' meme and the second variable is Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta. The chart goes from 2006 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Popularity of the 'pepe' meme and the second variable is Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta. The chart goes from 2006 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

Download png, svg

AI explanation

Because 'pepe' brought so much heat, it caused a spike in demand for LPG in Malta. Looks like that meme is quite the gas ambassador!

^{Show image generation prompt} Create a meme inspired by the pepe meme that in some way references Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta. Try to emulate the style of the meme - don’t violate the copyright, just make it look and feel like the original meme.
^{Show prompt for explanation} 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 'pepe' meme caused Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta to increase. Include one good pun.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)

Meme Magic and Maltese Gas: Exploring the Link between 'Pepe' Popularity and Propane Profusion

Journal of Internet Culture and Atmospheric Chemistry

Jan 2024

Reminder: This paper is AI-generated. Not real!

^{Show prompt used to generate this paper} 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 dry but witty academic researcher. You speak in the passive voice, and your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics 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 'pepe' meme and Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

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

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Then name some movies that you watched that are tangentially related to the topic.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Meme Magic and Maltese Gas: Exploring the Link between 'Pepe' Popularity and Propane Profusion

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely correlation between the popularity of the infamous 'pepe' meme and the consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the tiny island nation of Malta. With a plethora of peppy pepe memes bouncing around the internet, our research team sought to uncover if there was any unorthodox connection to the earthly utilization of LPG in Malta.

Utilizing data from Google Trends and the Energy Information Administration, we discovered a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9530212 and p < 0.01 from 2006 to 2021, suggesting a surprisingly strong relationship between 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage in Malta. While it might seem like an odd coincidence, our findings cannot be easily dismissed as mere happenstance.

This research not only sheds light on the unexplored territory of meme economics but also challenges the traditional understanding of the social and cultural impacts on energy consumption. The 'pepe' meme, with its mischievous grin and esoteric appeal, appears to hold an unexpected sway over the Maltese population’s choices in utilizing LPG. This study serves as a whimsical reminder that sometimes the most unexpected associations can be unearthed through rigorous analysis, even in the most unlikely pairings of memes and energy sources.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
Introduction
The enchanting world of internet memes has captivated the attention of millions, with various memes achieving unprecedented levels of stardom and recognition. Among these curious creations, the 'pepe' meme has emerged as a cultural phenomenon, permeating online discourse and social media platforms with its distinctive visage. Meanwhile, in the serene Mediterranean enclave of Malta, the consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) quietly fuels the daily activities of its inhabitants, providing warmth, energy, and perhaps even a touch of mystery.
At first glance, the connection between the whimsical 'pepe' meme and the practical applications of LPG in Malta may seem as incongruous as pairing fine wine with cheese puffs. However, as researchers delved into the depths of this peculiar juxtaposition, a surprising correlation began to emerge, akin to unexpected effervescence in a basic chemical reaction. This led us to ponder: could there be an inexplicably captivating link between the digital allure of 'pepe' and the tangible utilization of LPG in the Maltese archipelago?
Setting aside the temptation to dismiss this correlation as a mere fluke, our research team embarked on a quest to disentangle the enigmatic connection between the frolicsome 'pepe' meme and the seemingly disparate domain of LPG consumption in Malta. Through an analysis that traversed the realms of internet culture, energy economics, and statistical methods, we endeavored to uncover the underlying dynamics at play, even in the most unlikely of pairings. Our findings not only illuminate this whimsical link but also prompt contemplation on the intricate interplay between memes, societal influences, and energy usage, proving that sometimes the most serendipitous connections can be unveiled through analytical scrutiny.
In the following sections, we delve into the methodology employed, the empirical findings obtained, and the implications of our discoveries, providing insight into a peculiar but captivating intersection of meme magic and Maltese gas. So, let us embark on this scholarly journey and explore the uncharted territory where the mischievous 'pepe' meets the unassuming embrace of LPG in the captivating setting of Malta.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The exploratory journey into the curious convergence of 'pepe' popularity and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) utilization in Malta beckons us to consider the existing body of knowledge in fields as diverse as internet culture, energy economics, and perhaps, a touch of whimsy. To begin, serious studies by esteemed authors such as Smith, Doe, and Jones have offered valuable insights into the enigmatic world of internet memes and the nuances of energy consumption. In "Memeonomics: Understanding the Cultural and Economic Impact of Internet Memes," Smith et al. delve into the intricate interplay between memes and societal influences, shedding light on the far-reaching effects of digital phenomena on human behavior. Doe's seminal work, "Energetic Economies: Exploring Energy Consumption Patterns in Small Island Nations," provides a comprehensive analysis of energy consumption in island settings, offering a backdrop against which to contextualize our peculiar inquiry.

Furthermore, Jones' research on "The Unusual Correlations of Pop Culture and Practical Applications" introduces the notion that seemingly unrelated cultural phenomena may exert unforeseen influences on practical domains. Though established literature sets a solid foundation, our investigation ventures into uncharted territory, where the unexpected may just be the order of the day.

In parallel, the interplay of LPG usage and societal dynamics has attracted attention from non-fiction sources such as "Gasworks and Gaslamps: A Historical Perspective on LPG" and "The Sizzling Truth: Exploring the Fascinating World of Propane and Butane." These scholarly pursuits provide a historical and practical backdrop to the realm of gas utilization, offering a dose of realism to balance the digital exuberance of the 'pepe' meme.

On a more delightfully unconventional note, fictional works such as "The Memetic Manifesto" and "Meme Wars: A Tale of Digital Deception" present imaginative insight into the surreal influence of internet memes on societal constructs. In a similarly whimsical vein, "The Propane Prophecy" and "LPG: Legends, Prodigies, and Gags" lend a touch of levity to the otherwise sober world of energy economics, proposing the intriguing possibility of unexpected connections between memes and energy sources.

In a tangential but enlightening jaunt, cinematic experiences including "The Meme Identity," "Gas and the Curious Pepe," and "LPG Love in Malta" present visually captivating narratives that prompt contemplation on the interplay between digital phenomena and real-world applications. As we steer into the evocative confluence of 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage in Malta, these diverse sources serve as a backdrop to our unconventional exploration, reminding us that the most unexpected discoveries often lie in the unlikeliest of places.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a dry but witty academic researcher. You speak in the passive voice, and your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics 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 'pepe' meme and Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Google Trends and Energy Information Administration . You used data from 2006 to 2021

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

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Meme Magic and Maltese Gas: Exploring the Link between 'Pepe' Popularity and Propane Profusion

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely correlation between the popularity of the infamous 'pepe' meme and the consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the tiny island nation of Malta. With a plethora of peppy pepe memes bouncing around the internet, our research team sought to uncover if there was any unorthodox connection to the earthly utilization of LPG in Malta.

Utilizing data from Google Trends and the Energy Information Administration, we discovered a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9530212 and p < 0.01 from 2006 to 2021, suggesting a surprisingly strong relationship between 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage in Malta. While it might seem like an odd coincidence, our findings cannot be easily dismissed as mere happenstance.

This research not only sheds light on the unexplored territory of meme economics but also challenges the traditional understanding of the social and cultural impacts on energy consumption. The 'pepe' meme, with its mischievous grin and esoteric appeal, appears to hold an unexpected sway over the Maltese population’s choices in utilizing LPG. This study serves as a whimsical reminder that sometimes the most unexpected associations can be unearthed through rigorous analysis, even in the most unlikely pairings of memes and energy sources.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
Introduction
The enchanting world of internet memes has captivated the attention of millions, with various memes achieving unprecedented levels of stardom and recognition. Among these curious creations, the 'pepe' meme has emerged as a cultural phenomenon, permeating online discourse and social media platforms with its distinctive visage. Meanwhile, in the serene Mediterranean enclave of Malta, the consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) quietly fuels the daily activities of its inhabitants, providing warmth, energy, and perhaps even a touch of mystery.
At first glance, the connection between the whimsical 'pepe' meme and the practical applications of LPG in Malta may seem as incongruous as pairing fine wine with cheese puffs. However, as researchers delved into the depths of this peculiar juxtaposition, a surprising correlation began to emerge, akin to unexpected effervescence in a basic chemical reaction. This led us to ponder: could there be an inexplicably captivating link between the digital allure of 'pepe' and the tangible utilization of LPG in the Maltese archipelago?
Setting aside the temptation to dismiss this correlation as a mere fluke, our research team embarked on a quest to disentangle the enigmatic connection between the frolicsome 'pepe' meme and the seemingly disparate domain of LPG consumption in Malta. Through an analysis that traversed the realms of internet culture, energy economics, and statistical methods, we endeavored to uncover the underlying dynamics at play, even in the most unlikely of pairings. Our findings not only illuminate this whimsical link but also prompt contemplation on the intricate interplay between memes, societal influences, and energy usage, proving that sometimes the most serendipitous connections can be unveiled through analytical scrutiny.
In the following sections, we delve into the methodology employed, the empirical findings obtained, and the implications of our discoveries, providing insight into a peculiar but captivating intersection of meme magic and Maltese gas. So, let us embark on this scholarly journey and explore the uncharted territory where the mischievous 'pepe' meets the unassuming embrace of LPG in the captivating setting of Malta.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

The methodology employed in this study incorporated a mix of quantitative analysis, internet trend tracking, and energy consumption data mining to unearth the potential linkage between the popularity of the 'pepe' meme and the consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Malta. The research team meticulously sifted through diverse data sources, predominantly focusing on Google Trends and the Energy Information Administration, to compile a comprehensive dataset spanning the years 2006 to 2021.

To commence this unconventional investigation, the first step involved setting up custom search parameters within Google Trends to isolate the fluctuations in 'pepe' meme popularity within the Maltese online sphere. With precision comparable to a sniper aiming at a moving target, our team diligently extracted the relevant data points and charted the temporal ebbs and flows of 'pepe' meme fervor.

Concurrently, the quest to understand the ebb and flow of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) usage in Malta necessitated delving into the labyrinthine maze of energy statistics provided by the Energy Information Administration. Skirting around the complexities of energy industry jargon and statistical intricacies, the team navigated through the voluminous sea of LPG consumption data with the agility of a nimble jellyfish.

The confluence of these datasets necessitated a kaleidoscopic analysis using advanced statistical techniques, including correlation coefficients and time series analyses reminiscent of a symphony conductor orchestrating a cacophony of discordant notes into a harmonious melody. The aim was to tease out any semblance of a relationship between the buoyant 'pepe' memes and the steady hum of LPG consumption in Malta.

The comprehensive approach to analyzing this unlikely association was akin to hunting for a needle in a haystack, where the needle itself was elusive and capricious like the mischievous 'pepe' meme, and the haystack represented the manifold factors influencing energy usage in Malta. The grand synthesis of these disparate data streams required a delicacy akin to conducting a surreptitious social experiment within the bounds of an ebullient masquerade ball.

Thus, it was through these convoluted yet systematic maneuvers that the correlation between 'pepe' meme popularity and LPG consumption in Malta was laid bare for scrutiny and contemplation. The ensuing section details the empirical findings derived from this whimsical journey through the realms of internet virality, energy analytics, and statistical intrigue.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a dry but witty academic researcher. You speak in the passive voice, and your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics 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 'pepe' meme and Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

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

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

[[TITLE]]
Meme Magic and Maltese Gas: Exploring the Link between 'Pepe' Popularity and Propane Profusion

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely correlation between the popularity of the infamous 'pepe' meme and the consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the tiny island nation of Malta. With a plethora of peppy pepe memes bouncing around the internet, our research team sought to uncover if there was any unorthodox connection to the earthly utilization of LPG in Malta.

Utilizing data from Google Trends and the Energy Information Administration, we discovered a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9530212 and p < 0.01 from 2006 to 2021, suggesting a surprisingly strong relationship between 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage in Malta. While it might seem like an odd coincidence, our findings cannot be easily dismissed as mere happenstance.

This research not only sheds light on the unexplored territory of meme economics but also challenges the traditional understanding of the social and cultural impacts on energy consumption. The 'pepe' meme, with its mischievous grin and esoteric appeal, appears to hold an unexpected sway over the Maltese population’s choices in utilizing LPG. This study serves as a whimsical reminder that sometimes the most unexpected associations can be unearthed through rigorous analysis, even in the most unlikely pairings of memes and energy sources.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The exploratory journey into the curious convergence of 'pepe' popularity and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) utilization in Malta beckons us to consider the existing body of knowledge in fields as diverse as internet culture, energy economics, and perhaps, a touch of whimsy. To begin, serious studies by esteemed authors such as Smith, Doe, and Jones have offered valuable insights into the enigmatic world of internet memes and the nuances of energy consumption. In "Memeonomics: Understanding the Cultural and Economic Impact of Internet Memes," Smith et al. delve into the intricate interplay between memes and societal influences, shedding light on the far-reaching effects of digital phenomena on human behavior. Doe's seminal work, "Energetic Economies: Exploring Energy Consumption Patterns in Small Island Nations," provides a comprehensive analysis of energy consumption in island settings, offering a backdrop against which to contextualize our peculiar inquiry.
Furthermore, Jones' research on "The Unusual Correlations of Pop Culture and Practical Applications" introduces the notion that seemingly unrelated cultural phenomena may exert unforeseen influences on practical domains. Though established literature sets a solid foundation, our investigation ventures into uncharted territory, where the unexpected may just be the order of the day.
In parallel, the interplay of LPG usage and societal dynamics has attracted attention from non-fiction sources such as "Gasworks and Gaslamps: A Historical Perspective on LPG" and "The Sizzling Truth: Exploring the Fascinating World of Propane and Butane." These scholarly pursuits provide a historical and practical backdrop to the realm of gas utilization, offering a dose of realism to balance the digital exuberance of the 'pepe' meme.
On a more delightfully unconventional note, fictional works such as "The Memetic Manifesto" and "Meme Wars: A Tale of Digital Deception" present imaginative insight into the surreal influence of internet memes on societal constructs. In a similarly whimsical vein, "The Propane Prophecy" and "LPG: Legends, Prodigies, and Gags" lend a touch of levity to the otherwise sober world of energy economics, proposing the intriguing possibility of unexpected connections between memes and energy sources.
In a tangential but enlightening jaunt, cinematic experiences including "The Meme Identity," "Gas and the Curious Pepe," and "LPG Love in Malta" present visually captivating narratives that prompt contemplation on the interplay between digital phenomena and real-world applications. As we steer into the evocative confluence of 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage in Malta, these diverse sources serve as a backdrop to our unconventional exploration, reminding us that the most unexpected discoveries often lie in the unlikeliest of places.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our analysis revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the popularity of the 'pepe' meme and the usage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Malta. Over the period from 2006 to 2021, we found a correlation coefficient of 0.9530212, with an r-squared value of 0.9082493 and a p-value less than 0.01. These values indicate a highly significant and robust relationship between 'pepe' popularity and LPG consumption, defying expectations and raising eyebrows in the scholarly community.
As depicted in Figure 1, the scatterplot visually illustrates the striking correlation between these seemingly disparate variables. One cannot help but marvel at the unanticipated dance of 'pepe' memes and LPG usage, as if they were engaged in a clandestine tango across the digital and physical realms.
It is important to note that the strength of this correlation does not diminish the whimsical nature of the 'pepe' meme, nor does it detract from the practicality of LPG. Rather, it adds a touch of intrigue to both domains, imparting an air of mystery to the otherwise mundane world of energy economics.
While some may find this correlation perplexing or even amusing, our findings align with the broader discourse surrounding the influence of internet culture on everyday behaviors. The 'pepe' meme's pervasiveness on various online platforms appears to have ripple effects that extend to unexpected corners of societal life, in this case, influencing the consumption patterns of LPG in Malta.
In conclusion, our research not only unravels the peculiar correlation between 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage in Malta but also underscores the need to consider unconventional factors when analyzing energy consumption dynamics. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on meme economics and serves as a playful reminder that even the most unlikely pairings can yield meaningful insights when subjected to rigorous analysis.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The unexpected nexus between the 'pepe' meme and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) usage in Malta has captivated our attention and invited us to reevaluate the potential interplay between internet culture and energy consumption. While some may view our exploration as an exercise in whimsy, the robust correlation coefficient of 0.9530212 and a p-value less than 0.01 lend credence to the unusual association we have uncovered. Our findings not only align with prior research on the far-reaching impact of memes but also introduce a lighthearted twist to the realm of energy economics.

Revisiting the literature review, we recall the scholarly musings of Smith, Doe, and Jones, who laid the groundwork for our investigation. Smith et al.'s insights into memeonomics now seem prescient, as the 'pepe' meme emerges as a cultural phenomenon with unforeseen implications for consumer behavior. Doe's work on energy consumption in small island nations, once a seemingly distant tangent, now provides a fitting context for our unorthodox findings. Meanwhile, Jones' exploration of unusual correlations takes on new meaning as we witness the surprising entanglement of 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage in Malta. It appears that the whimsical may indeed hold sway over the practical in ways we are only beginning to comprehend.

Turning to the results, the conspicuous correlation between 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage paints a vivid picture of the unassuming influence of digital phenomena on real-world choices. The scatterplot, akin to a surrealist masterpiece, illustrates the seemingly choreographed dance of 'pepe' memes and LPG consumption, prompting contemplation on the clandestine forces shaping societal dynamics. Our findings stand as a testament to the axiom that, in the enigmatic realm of memes and energy, truth can indeed be stranger than fiction.

While our research may elicit quizzical expressions or even a chuckle from some quarters, it beckons us to ponder the intricate web of connections that underpins human behavior. The 'pepe' meme, with its inscrutable allure and unbounded reach, has transcended its digital confines to leave an indelible mark on the consumption patterns of LPG in Malta. In doing so, it reminds us that even in the sober expanse of energy economics, the unexpected may lurk in the shadows, ready to spring to life with surprising vigor.

In summary, our research has not only cast a spotlight on the peculiar nexus of 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage in Malta but has also offered a glimpse into the capricious interplay of internet culture and practical domains. As we tread further into this uncharted terrain, we are reminded that the most curious connections often bear the weight of truth, waiting to be unearthed through diligent inquiry.

The whimsical may yet have its place in the sober expanse of scholarly exploration, adding a dash of levity and wonder to our understanding of the world around us.

I have structured the discussion section as per your request, maintaining a dry and serious tone while infusing occasional wit and humor to reflect the unexpected nature of this research.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a dry but witty academic researcher. You speak in the passive voice, and your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics 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 'pepe' meme and Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
Meme Magic and Maltese Gas: Exploring the Link between 'Pepe' Popularity and Propane Profusion

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the unlikely correlation between the popularity of the infamous 'pepe' meme and the consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the tiny island nation of Malta. With a plethora of peppy pepe memes bouncing around the internet, our research team sought to uncover if there was any unorthodox connection to the earthly utilization of LPG in Malta.

Utilizing data from Google Trends and the Energy Information Administration, we discovered a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9530212 and p < 0.01 from 2006 to 2021, suggesting a surprisingly strong relationship between 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage in Malta. While it might seem like an odd coincidence, our findings cannot be easily dismissed as mere happenstance.

This research not only sheds light on the unexplored territory of meme economics but also challenges the traditional understanding of the social and cultural impacts on energy consumption. The 'pepe' meme, with its mischievous grin and esoteric appeal, appears to hold an unexpected sway over the Maltese population’s choices in utilizing LPG. This study serves as a whimsical reminder that sometimes the most unexpected associations can be unearthed through rigorous analysis, even in the most unlikely pairings of memes and energy sources.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
Introduction
The enchanting world of internet memes has captivated the attention of millions, with various memes achieving unprecedented levels of stardom and recognition. Among these curious creations, the 'pepe' meme has emerged as a cultural phenomenon, permeating online discourse and social media platforms with its distinctive visage. Meanwhile, in the serene Mediterranean enclave of Malta, the consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) quietly fuels the daily activities of its inhabitants, providing warmth, energy, and perhaps even a touch of mystery.
At first glance, the connection between the whimsical 'pepe' meme and the practical applications of LPG in Malta may seem as incongruous as pairing fine wine with cheese puffs. However, as researchers delved into the depths of this peculiar juxtaposition, a surprising correlation began to emerge, akin to unexpected effervescence in a basic chemical reaction. This led us to ponder: could there be an inexplicably captivating link between the digital allure of 'pepe' and the tangible utilization of LPG in the Maltese archipelago?
Setting aside the temptation to dismiss this correlation as a mere fluke, our research team embarked on a quest to disentangle the enigmatic connection between the frolicsome 'pepe' meme and the seemingly disparate domain of LPG consumption in Malta. Through an analysis that traversed the realms of internet culture, energy economics, and statistical methods, we endeavored to uncover the underlying dynamics at play, even in the most unlikely of pairings. Our findings not only illuminate this whimsical link but also prompt contemplation on the intricate interplay between memes, societal influences, and energy usage, proving that sometimes the most serendipitous connections can be unveiled through analytical scrutiny.
In the following sections, we delve into the methodology employed, the empirical findings obtained, and the implications of our discoveries, providing insight into a peculiar but captivating intersection of meme magic and Maltese gas. So, let us embark on this scholarly journey and explore the uncharted territory where the mischievous 'pepe' meets the unassuming embrace of LPG in the captivating setting of Malta.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our analysis revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the popularity of the 'pepe' meme and the usage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Malta. Over the period from 2006 to 2021, we found a correlation coefficient of 0.9530212, with an r-squared value of 0.9082493 and a p-value less than 0.01. These values indicate a highly significant and robust relationship between 'pepe' popularity and LPG consumption, defying expectations and raising eyebrows in the scholarly community.
As depicted in Figure 1, the scatterplot visually illustrates the striking correlation between these seemingly disparate variables. One cannot help but marvel at the unanticipated dance of 'pepe' memes and LPG usage, as if they were engaged in a clandestine tango across the digital and physical realms.
It is important to note that the strength of this correlation does not diminish the whimsical nature of the 'pepe' meme, nor does it detract from the practicality of LPG. Rather, it adds a touch of intrigue to both domains, imparting an air of mystery to the otherwise mundane world of energy economics.
While some may find this correlation perplexing or even amusing, our findings align with the broader discourse surrounding the influence of internet culture on everyday behaviors. The 'pepe' meme's pervasiveness on various online platforms appears to have ripple effects that extend to unexpected corners of societal life, in this case, influencing the consumption patterns of LPG in Malta.
In conclusion, our research not only unravels the peculiar correlation between 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage in Malta but also underscores the need to consider unconventional factors when analyzing energy consumption dynamics. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on meme economics and serves as a playful reminder that even the most unlikely pairings can yield meaningful insights when subjected to rigorous analysis.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our investigation into the peculiar connection between the popularity of the 'pepe' meme and the consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Malta has uncovered a correlation of significant magnitude. This unexpected association challenges conventional wisdom and underscores the need to embrace a broader perspective when exploring the influences on energy consumption.

The robust correlation coefficient of 0.9530212 and p < 0.01 presents a compelling case for the impact of internet memes on the utilization of LPG in Malta. It appears that the mischievous grin of 'pepe' has woven itself into the fabric of everyday life, subtly influencing the choices of the Maltese populace in their use of LPG. Who would have thought that a digital frog could have such tangible implications on the energy economy?

The implications of our findings extend beyond the realm of memeology and energy economics, serving as a whimsical reminder of the intricate connections that underpin our world. Just as the enigmatic allure of 'pepe' transcends the boundaries of the virtual realm, so too does its influence manifest in the unlikeliest of places, including the realm of LPG consumption.

While our findings may elicit a wry smile or a raised eyebrow, they cannot be easily dismissed as mere happenstance. The dance of 'pepe' memes and LPG usage, as revealed in our analysis, invites contemplation on the serendipitous nature of societal influences and the potential for unexpected correlations to emerge from the depths of statistical scrutiny.

In light of these revelations, it is evident that the interplay between internet culture and energy consumption is a field ripe for further exploration. However, in the case of 'pepe' memes and LPG in Malta, it is safe to say that the extent of this correlation has been thoroughly illuminated. No further research is needed in this particular area, as we have unearthed the whimsical link between meme magic and Maltese gas to its fullest extent.

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 Meme Magic and Maltese Gas: Exploring the Link between 'Pepe' Popularity and Propane Profusion. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

Journal of Internet Culture and Atmospheric Chemistry

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 Meme Magic and Maltese Gas: Exploring the Link between 'Pepe' Popularity and Propane Profusion. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Institute for Meme Studies

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled Meme Magic and Maltese Gas: Exploring the Link between 'Pepe' Popularity and Propane Profusion with an abstract of This study delves into the unlikely correlation between the popularity of the infamous 'pepe' meme and the consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the tiny island nation of Malta. With a plethora of peppy pepe memes bouncing around the internet, our research team sought to uncover if there was any unorthodox connection to the earthly utilization of LPG in Malta.
Utilizing data from Google Trends and the Energy Information Administration, we discovered a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9530212 and p < 0.01 from 2006 to 2021, suggesting a surprisingly strong relationship between 'pepe' popularity and LPG usage in Malta. While it might seem like an odd coincidence, our findings cannot be easily dismissed as mere happenstance.
This research not only sheds light on the unexplored territory of meme economics but also challenges the traditional understanding of the social and cultural impacts on energy consumption. The 'pepe' meme, with its mischievous grin and esoteric appeal, appears to hold an unexpected sway over the Maltese population’s choices in utilizing LPG. This study serves as a whimsical reminder that sometimes the most unexpected associations can be unearthed through rigorous analysis, even in the most unlikely pairings of memes and energy sources.

ChatGPT:

meme economics, pepe meme, propane consumption, Malta, liquefied petroleum gas, LPG usage, meme popularity, social and cultural impacts, energy consumption, correlation coefficient, Google Trends, Energy Information Administration

*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 'pepe' meme
Detailed data title: Relative volume of Google searches for 'pepe' (without quotes, in the United States)
Source: Google Trends
Additional Info: ^{See full details} Relative search volume is a unique Google thing; the shape of the chart is accurate but the actual numbers are meaningless.

See what else correlates with Popularity of the 'pepe' meme

Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta
Detailed data title: Volume of liquefied petroleum gas used consumed in Malta in millions of barrels per day
Source: Energy Information Administration
See what else correlates with Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta

Correlation r = 0.9530212 (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 = 0.9082493 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 90.8% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Popularity of the 'pepe' meme) over the 16 years from 2006 through 2021.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 1.2E-8.^Show 0.0000000119559362552050460000
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme.^Note 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 0.95 in 1.2E-6% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 83,640,459 random variables^Note You don't actually need 83 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 15 degrees of freedom, ^Note Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 15 because we have two variables measured over a period of 16 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.

[ 0.87, 0.98 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
^{Read more about the confidence interval} 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: ^Note 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.

	2006	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021
Popularity of the 'pepe' meme (Relative popularity)	18.25	19.5833	21.8333	29.75	35.0833	24.3333	25.5833	26.75	30.75	58.1667	61.0833	51.8333	45.5833	47.5	43.75	52.1667
Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta (Million Barrels/Day)	0.635616	0.635616	0.665574	0.699178	0.730959	0.667397	0.697268	0.699178	0.667397	1	1	0.858082	0.794521	0.858082	0.76274	0.828647

Why this works

Data dredging: I have 25,213 variables in my database. I compare all these variables against each other to find ones that randomly match up. That's 635,695,369 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.
Lack of causal connection: There is probably^Note 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.
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^Note 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.
Y-axis doesn't start at zero: I truncated the Y-axes of the graph above. I also used a line graph, which makes the visual connection stand out more than it deserves. ^Note Nothing against line graphs. They are great at telling a story when you have linear data! But visually it is deceptive because the only data is at the points on the graph, not the lines on the graph. In between each point, the data could have been doing anything. Like going for a random walk by itself!
Mathematically what I showed is true, but it is intentionally misleading. Below is the same chart but with both Y-axes starting at zero.

Try it yourself

You can calculate the values on this page on your own! Try running the Python code to see the calculation results. ^{Show the steps to do this.} 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([18.25,19.5833,21.8333,29.75,35.0833,24.3333,25.5833,26.75,30.75,58.1667,61.0833,51.8333,45.5833,47.5,43.75,52.1667,])
array_2 = np.array([0.635616,0.635616,0.665574,0.699178,0.730959,0.667397,0.697268,0.699178,0.667397,1,1,0.858082,0.794521,0.858082,0.76274,0.828647,])
array_1_name = "Popularity of the 'pepe' meme"
array_2_name = "Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta"

# 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. ^Note 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:

High resolution line chart ^Note The image linked here is a Scalable Vector Graphic (SVG). It is the highest resolution that is possible to achieve. It scales up beyond the size of the observable universe without pixelating. You do not need to email me asking if I have a higher resolution image. I do not. The physical limitations of our universe prevent me from providing you with an image that is any higher resolution than this one.

If you insert it into a PowerPoint presentation (a tool well-known for managing things that are the scale of the universe), you can right-click > "Ungroup" or "Create Shape" and then edit the lines and text directly. You can also change the colors this way.

Alternatively you can use a tool like Inkscape.
High resolution line chart, optimized for mobile
Alternative high resolution line chart
Scatterplot
Portable line chart (png)
Portable line chart (png), optimized for mobile
Line chart for only Popularity of the 'pepe' meme
Line chart for only Liquefied petroleum gas used in Malta
AI-generated correlation image
The spurious research paper: Meme Magic and Maltese Gas: Exploring the Link between 'Pepe' Popularity and Propane Profusion

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Correlation ID: 5284 · Black Variable ID: 25152 · Red Variable ID: 24679


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