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Spurious correlation #2,052 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota and the second variable is Pirate attacks globally.  The chart goes from 2009 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

As GMO use in Minnesota decreased, the corn stalks started resembling traditional masts, confusing the pirates. This led to a global decrease in pirate attacks as they couldn't distinguish between actual ships and the corn fields.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate a black-and-white newspaper-style illustration of a farmer standing in a vast Minnesota cornfield, inspecting genetically modified corn that stands tall and healthy. In the distance, a detailed pirate ship with a Jolly Roger flag sails on the open sea, its sails billowing in the wind as it embarks on a global plundering journey. The image should capture the contrast between the serenity of the cornfield and the adventurous spirit of the pirate ship, with attention to the details of both elements. 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: GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota and Pirate attacks globally. 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: Hyper-realistic A photo-realistic image Symbolism A black-and-white newspaper illustration Glitch art
ChatGPT: A black-and-white newspaper illustration

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 GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota and Pirate attacks globally together. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a vast cornfield in Minnesota, a farmer inspects his crop of genetically modified corn, which stands tall and healthy. In the distance, a pirate ship sails on the open sea, its Jolly Roger flag flapping in the wind, as it embarks on its global journey for plunder.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You write and improve image generation prompts for DALLE-3. You maintain the same subjects, but enhance the visuals.
User prompt: Please respond with an image generation prompt that would be likely to create an interesting visual using DALLE-3, using the following style: [ A black-and-white newspaper illustration ] and depicting this scene: In a vast cornfield in Minnesota, a farmer inspects his crop of genetically modified corn, which stands tall and healthy. In the distance, a pirate ship sails on the open sea, its Jolly Roger flag flapping in the wind, as it embarks on its global journey for plunder. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate a black-and-white newspaper-style illustration of a farmer standing in a vast Minnesota cornfield, inspecting genetically modified corn that stands tall and healthy. In the distance, a detailed pirate ship with a Jolly Roger flag sails on the open sea, its sails billowing in the wind as it embarks on a global plundering journey. The image should capture the contrast between the serenity of the cornfield and the adventurous spirit of the pirate ship, with attention to the details of both elements.

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

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

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how a decrease in GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota caused Pirate attacks globally to decrease.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Grain and Rum: Unearthing the Nexus Between GMO Corn Cultivation in Minnesota and Global Pirate Raids

The Journal of Agricultural Anecdotes

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 GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota and Pirate attacks globally. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

Your research team used data from USDA and Statista to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 and p < 0.01 for 2009 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]]
"Grain and Rum: Unearthing the Nexus Between GMO Corn Cultivation in Minnesota and Global Pirate Raids"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the agricultural practices in the cornfields of Minnesota and the prevalence of pirate attacks on the high seas worldwide. Leveraging comprehensive data from the USDA and Statista, we exhaustively analyzed the intersection of GMO corn cultivation in the North Star State and the occurrences of piracy across the globe from 2009 to 2022.

Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01, suggesting a robust association between the two variables. While we refrain from jumping to hasty conclusions, our research sheds light on the intriguing possibility of a clandestine link between the genetic modification of maize in the American heartland and the daring exploits of buccaneers in far-flung waters.

We implore future researchers to pursue this line of inquiry with the same fervor and whimsical wonder that has animated our investigation. In doing so, they may unearth the buried treasures of this enigmatic correlation and bask in the delight of intellectual discovery.


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 GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota and Pirate attacks globally. 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]]
"Grain and Rum: Unearthing the Nexus Between GMO Corn Cultivation in Minnesota and Global Pirate Raids"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the agricultural practices in the cornfields of Minnesota and the prevalence of pirate attacks on the high seas worldwide. Leveraging comprehensive data from the USDA and Statista, we exhaustively analyzed the intersection of GMO corn cultivation in the North Star State and the occurrences of piracy across the globe from 2009 to 2022.

Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01, suggesting a robust association between the two variables. While we refrain from jumping to hasty conclusions, our research sheds light on the intriguing possibility of a clandestine link between the genetic modification of maize in the American heartland and the daring exploits of buccaneers in far-flung waters.

We implore future researchers to pursue this line of inquiry with the same fervor and whimsical wonder that has animated our investigation. In doing so, they may unearth the buried treasures of this enigmatic correlation and bask in the delight of intellectual discovery.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The intersection of agriculture and maritime affairs has long captivated the imaginations of scholars and laymen alike. While one might expect such disparate fields to have as little in common as, say, a landlubber and a mermaid, our research suggests otherwise. In this paper, we unravel the enigmatic connection between the cultivation of genetically modified organism (GMO) corn in Minnesota and the swashbuckling activities of pirates on the global stage.

The widespread adoption of GMO corn in the American heartland has been a subject of fervent debate, with proponents extolling its potential to bolster yields, resist pests, and, if rumors are to be believed, germinate cornstalks shaped like Blackbeard's beard. Meanwhile, the proliferation of piracy on the high seas continues to perplex and fascinate, with Hollywood producing countless films that romanticize the adventures of scallywags and plunderers, but neglect to mention the questionable dental hygiene practices of these seafaring individuals.

However, in the pursuit of academic inquiry, it is imperative to remain anchored in empirical evidence. That is precisely why we set out to investigate whether there exists a tangible link between the cultivation of GMO corn in Minnesota and the frequency of pirate raids. We employed rigorous statistical analyses and, at times, a good deal of imagination, to disentangle this peculiar association and discern its underlying mechanisms.

By delving into this uncharted territory, we aim to not only elucidate the possible interactions between these seemingly disparate phenomena but also inject a dose of levity and whimsy into the scholarly discourse. As Mark Twain once opined, "The rumors of the demise of pirates are greatly exaggerated," or perhaps it was pirates who exaggerated their own demise – a matter for future research, perhaps.

In the following sections, we expound upon our data sources, methodology, results, and the implications of our findings. Our hope is that this investigation will arouse the curiosity of fellow researchers and provoke a hearty “yo-ho-ho” of delight in the scientific community.


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 GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota and Pirate attacks globally. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

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

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Then name a few real TV shows that sound like they might be relevant to the topic that you watched as research.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Grain and Rum: Unearthing the Nexus Between GMO Corn Cultivation in Minnesota and Global Pirate Raids"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the agricultural practices in the cornfields of Minnesota and the prevalence of pirate attacks on the high seas worldwide. Leveraging comprehensive data from the USDA and Statista, we exhaustively analyzed the intersection of GMO corn cultivation in the North Star State and the occurrences of piracy across the globe from 2009 to 2022.

Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01, suggesting a robust association between the two variables. While we refrain from jumping to hasty conclusions, our research sheds light on the intriguing possibility of a clandestine link between the genetic modification of maize in the American heartland and the daring exploits of buccaneers in far-flung waters.

We implore future researchers to pursue this line of inquiry with the same fervor and whimsical wonder that has animated our investigation. In doing so, they may unearth the buried treasures of this enigmatic correlation and bask in the delight of intellectual discovery.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The intersection of agriculture and maritime affairs has long captivated the imaginations of scholars and laymen alike. While one might expect such disparate fields to have as little in common as, say, a landlubber and a mermaid, our research suggests otherwise. In this paper, we unravel the enigmatic connection between the cultivation of genetically modified organism (GMO) corn in Minnesota and the swashbuckling activities of pirates on the global stage.
The widespread adoption of GMO corn in the American heartland has been a subject of fervent debate, with proponents extolling its potential to bolster yields, resist pests, and, if rumors are to be believed, germinate cornstalks shaped like Blackbeard's beard. Meanwhile, the proliferation of piracy on the high seas continues to perplex and fascinate, with Hollywood producing countless films that romanticize the adventures of scallywags and plunderers, but neglect to mention the questionable dental hygiene practices of these seafaring individuals.
However, in the pursuit of academic inquiry, it is imperative to remain anchored in empirical evidence. That is precisely why we set out to investigate whether there exists a tangible link between the cultivation of GMO corn in Minnesota and the frequency of pirate raids. We employed rigorous statistical analyses and, at times, a good deal of imagination, to disentangle this peculiar association and discern its underlying mechanisms.
By delving into this uncharted territory, we aim to not only elucidate the possible interactions between these seemingly disparate phenomena but also inject a dose of levity and whimsy into the scholarly discourse. As Mark Twain once opined, "The rumors of the demise of pirates are greatly exaggerated," or perhaps it was pirates who exaggerated their own demise – a matter for future research, perhaps.
In the following sections, we expound upon our data sources, methodology, results, and the implications of our findings. Our hope is that this investigation will arouse the curiosity of fellow researchers and provoke a hearty “yo-ho-ho” of delight in the scientific community.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The confluence of genetically modified organism (GMO) corn cultivation in the heartland of Minnesota and the occurrence of pirate escapades on the global seas has confounded researchers and enthusiasts alike. While the initial pursuit of relevant literature led us to scholarly works by Smith (2010), Doe (2015), and Jones (2020) outlining the agronomic impacts of GMO crops, it also veered into unforeseen territories that propelled us toward the uncharted waters of pirate lore and maritime history.

In "Corn and Beyond: The Impact of GMO Cultivation on Agricultural Practices," Smith (2010) presents a comprehensive analysis of the agricultural, economic, and environmental consequences of GMO crop adoption, shedding light on the potential implications for crop yield, pesticide usage, and, regrettably, the absence of corn varieties shaped like parrots or Jolly Rogers. Similarly, Doe (2015) in "The Economics of GMOs: An In-Depth Exploration" meticulously examines the economic ramifications of GMO crop cultivation, forsaking, it seems, any mention of potential implications for nautical pursuits.

As we waded further into the depths of literature, our journey took an unexpected turn as we stumbled upon works that strayed from the traditional scholarly discourse. "Pirate Politics: Power, Plunder, and Parrots" by Blackbeard (1718) transported us to the salty seas of yore, weaving tales of swashbuckling adventures and the politics of piracy, though regrettably leaving out any references to agricultural practices or modern biotechnology. Furthermore, "Pirates of the GMO Caribbean" by Captain Cornstalk (2003) provided a whimsical yet tangential perspective on the potential nexus between GMO corn and piratical exploits, drawing parallels between sea shanties and agronomic musings.

Turning to the realm of fiction, we found solace in works such as "The Maize of the Caribbean" by Johnny Depp (2006) and "Cornfields and Cutlasses: An Epic Tale" by Cornelia Funke (2015), which, while not empirical in nature, offered intriguing narratives that stirred further contemplation of the whimsical possibilities intrinsic to our research theme.

In our unorthodox quest for the underlying mechanisms of the enigmatic correlation between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and the prevalence of pirate raids, we also drew inspiration from popular culture. Through meticulous study – and perhaps some well-deserved respite – we found that TV shows like "Deadliest Catch: Pirate Edition" and "The Great GMO Bake-Off" proved surprisingly informative, albeit slightly more in the realm of entertainment rather than scholarly inquiry.

As we continued to anchor our investigation in the existing literature, it became increasingly evident that our pursuit of knowledge in this domain was not only academically stimulating but also laced with moments of unanticipated hilarity and absurdity. Our foray into the realms of GMO agriculture and piracy has been nothing short of a rollicking adventure, punctuated by chuckles, eye-rolls, and the occasional parrot squawk.


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 GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota and Pirate attacks globally. 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 USDA and Statista . You used data from 2009 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]]
"Grain and Rum: Unearthing the Nexus Between GMO Corn Cultivation in Minnesota and Global Pirate Raids"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the agricultural practices in the cornfields of Minnesota and the prevalence of pirate attacks on the high seas worldwide. Leveraging comprehensive data from the USDA and Statista, we exhaustively analyzed the intersection of GMO corn cultivation in the North Star State and the occurrences of piracy across the globe from 2009 to 2022.

Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01, suggesting a robust association between the two variables. While we refrain from jumping to hasty conclusions, our research sheds light on the intriguing possibility of a clandestine link between the genetic modification of maize in the American heartland and the daring exploits of buccaneers in far-flung waters.

We implore future researchers to pursue this line of inquiry with the same fervor and whimsical wonder that has animated our investigation. In doing so, they may unearth the buried treasures of this enigmatic correlation and bask in the delight of intellectual discovery.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The intersection of agriculture and maritime affairs has long captivated the imaginations of scholars and laymen alike. While one might expect such disparate fields to have as little in common as, say, a landlubber and a mermaid, our research suggests otherwise. In this paper, we unravel the enigmatic connection between the cultivation of genetically modified organism (GMO) corn in Minnesota and the swashbuckling activities of pirates on the global stage.
The widespread adoption of GMO corn in the American heartland has been a subject of fervent debate, with proponents extolling its potential to bolster yields, resist pests, and, if rumors are to be believed, germinate cornstalks shaped like Blackbeard's beard. Meanwhile, the proliferation of piracy on the high seas continues to perplex and fascinate, with Hollywood producing countless films that romanticize the adventures of scallywags and plunderers, but neglect to mention the questionable dental hygiene practices of these seafaring individuals.
However, in the pursuit of academic inquiry, it is imperative to remain anchored in empirical evidence. That is precisely why we set out to investigate whether there exists a tangible link between the cultivation of GMO corn in Minnesota and the frequency of pirate raids. We employed rigorous statistical analyses and, at times, a good deal of imagination, to disentangle this peculiar association and discern its underlying mechanisms.
By delving into this uncharted territory, we aim to not only elucidate the possible interactions between these seemingly disparate phenomena but also inject a dose of levity and whimsy into the scholarly discourse. As Mark Twain once opined, "The rumors of the demise of pirates are greatly exaggerated," or perhaps it was pirates who exaggerated their own demise – a matter for future research, perhaps.
In the following sections, we expound upon our data sources, methodology, results, and the implications of our findings. Our hope is that this investigation will arouse the curiosity of fellow researchers and provoke a hearty “yo-ho-ho” of delight in the scientific community.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

Data Collection:
The first plank of our methodological rigging entailed the gathering of data from various sources, akin to intrepid sailors seeking out hidden caches of treasure. Given the pervasive nature of GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and the global expanse of pirate activity, we cast our nets wide across the digital seas, scouring databases and archives. Our primary sources of information were the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Statista, which provided us with a bounty of data spanning the years 2009 to 2022. We sifted through this amalgamation of statistics with a keen eye, separating the kernels of relevant information from the chaff of irrelevant data.

Defining GMO Corn Cultivation and Pirate Raids:
To anchor our study in concrete terms, we adopted a broad definition of GMO corn cultivation, encompassing the planting and growth of genetically modified maize in the state of Minnesota. Similarly, our concept of pirate raids encompassed acts of maritime aggression, pillaging, and plunder committed by individuals on the high seas, metaphorically sailing through the statistical waters with black flags raised high.

Statistical Analysis:
To measure the association between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and global pirate raids, we employed a variety of statistical techniques that were as varied and colorful as a pirate's parrot. Our primary method was the calculation of correlation coefficients, which allowed us to gauge the strength and direction of the relationship between the two variables. Additionally, we conducted regression analyses to unearth potential causal pathways that may underlie this seemingly improbable connection, donning our metaphorical eye patches to glimpse into the hidden mechanisms at play.

Controlling for Confounding Factors:
As diligent researchers, we were acutely aware of the potential for spurious relationships to surface on the statistical horizon. To navigate these treacherous waters, we took great care to control for relevant confounding variables that could muddy the clarity of our findings. Factors such as global economic conditions, climate patterns, and geopolitical unrest were considered as potential saboteurs of our quest for truth and clarity.

Sensitivity Analyses:
In acknowledgment of the inherent complexities surrounding both GMO cultivation and piracy, we also conducted sensitivity analyses to gauge the robustness of our findings against possible deviations in data parameters. This approach allowed us to test the stability of our results and ensure that they were not merely a mirage in the statistical desert.

Ethical Considerations:
While our pursuit of academic knowledge and statistical significance was undeniably thrilling, we remained steadfast in our commitment to ethical research practices. All data were handled with the utmost care and respect, akin to handling a delicate map to hidden treasure, and were utilized solely for the purpose of advancing scholarly inquiry and critical analysis.

In conclusion, this methodological voyage was arduous, yet filled with moments of delight and surprise as we navigated the uncharted waters of GMO corn cultivation and global piracy. With our statistical compass in hand, we embarked on this daring expedition, eager to shed light on the curious and clandestine connection between two seemingly disparate phenomena. A hearty “avast ye” to all fellow researchers who may set sail on this tumultuous sea of inquiry, and may your findings be as rich and intriguing as the fabled treasures of the seven statistical seas.


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 GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota and Pirate attacks globally. 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 USDA and Statista .

For the time period 2009 to 2022, you found a correlation 0.9564537, r-squared of 0.9148037, 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]]
"Grain and Rum: Unearthing the Nexus Between GMO Corn Cultivation in Minnesota and Global Pirate Raids"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the agricultural practices in the cornfields of Minnesota and the prevalence of pirate attacks on the high seas worldwide. Leveraging comprehensive data from the USDA and Statista, we exhaustively analyzed the intersection of GMO corn cultivation in the North Star State and the occurrences of piracy across the globe from 2009 to 2022.

Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01, suggesting a robust association between the two variables. While we refrain from jumping to hasty conclusions, our research sheds light on the intriguing possibility of a clandestine link between the genetic modification of maize in the American heartland and the daring exploits of buccaneers in far-flung waters.

We implore future researchers to pursue this line of inquiry with the same fervor and whimsical wonder that has animated our investigation. In doing so, they may unearth the buried treasures of this enigmatic correlation and bask in the delight of intellectual discovery.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The intersection of agriculture and maritime affairs has long captivated the imaginations of scholars and laymen alike. While one might expect such disparate fields to have as little in common as, say, a landlubber and a mermaid, our research suggests otherwise. In this paper, we unravel the enigmatic connection between the cultivation of genetically modified organism (GMO) corn in Minnesota and the swashbuckling activities of pirates on the global stage.
The widespread adoption of GMO corn in the American heartland has been a subject of fervent debate, with proponents extolling its potential to bolster yields, resist pests, and, if rumors are to be believed, germinate cornstalks shaped like Blackbeard's beard. Meanwhile, the proliferation of piracy on the high seas continues to perplex and fascinate, with Hollywood producing countless films that romanticize the adventures of scallywags and plunderers, but neglect to mention the questionable dental hygiene practices of these seafaring individuals.
However, in the pursuit of academic inquiry, it is imperative to remain anchored in empirical evidence. That is precisely why we set out to investigate whether there exists a tangible link between the cultivation of GMO corn in Minnesota and the frequency of pirate raids. We employed rigorous statistical analyses and, at times, a good deal of imagination, to disentangle this peculiar association and discern its underlying mechanisms.
By delving into this uncharted territory, we aim to not only elucidate the possible interactions between these seemingly disparate phenomena but also inject a dose of levity and whimsy into the scholarly discourse. As Mark Twain once opined, "The rumors of the demise of pirates are greatly exaggerated," or perhaps it was pirates who exaggerated their own demise – a matter for future research, perhaps.
In the following sections, we expound upon our data sources, methodology, results, and the implications of our findings. Our hope is that this investigation will arouse the curiosity of fellow researchers and provoke a hearty “yo-ho-ho” of delight in the scientific community.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The statistical analysis of the data amassed from the USDA and Statista yielded intriguing insights into the potential relationship between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and global pirate activity. The correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 indicated a strong positive correlation between the two variables. This suggests that as the cultivation of GMO corn in Minnesota increased, so did the frequency of pirate attacks worldwide, or perhaps pirates simply developed a keener taste for corn over the years.

Furthermore, the r-squared value of 0.9148037 indicated that approximately 91.48% of the variability in pirate attacks can be explained by the variability in GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota. It appears that the cultivation of genetically modified corn may have a more influential role in swashbuckling affairs than previously imagined.

The p-value of less than 0.01 adds another layer of intrigue to our findings, providing strong evidence to reject the null hypothesis that there is no association between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and global pirate raids. It seems that the cornfields of Minnesota may hold more secrets than just their yield.

Fig. 1 displays a visually compelling scatterplot that illustrates the robust correlation between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and pirate attacks on the high seas. This figure serves as a striking visual representation of our findings, although it regrettably does not feature any parrots or peg-legged buccaneers.

In summary, our results unearth a peculiar and compelling correlation between the agricultural practices in the heartland of America and the maritime exploits of pirates across the globe. While we maintain a cautious stance regarding causation and urge a healthy dose of skepticism, the statistical evidence indicates a remarkable association. This line of inquiry certainly spices up the discussion of agricultural influences on maritime activities, providing a fresh perspective on the potential interconnectedness of seemingly disparate domains. We hope that fellow researchers will share in our sense of wonder and embark on further investigations into this curiously captivating correlation.


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 GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota and Pirate attacks globally. 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]]
"Grain and Rum: Unearthing the Nexus Between GMO Corn Cultivation in Minnesota and Global Pirate Raids"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the agricultural practices in the cornfields of Minnesota and the prevalence of pirate attacks on the high seas worldwide. Leveraging comprehensive data from the USDA and Statista, we exhaustively analyzed the intersection of GMO corn cultivation in the North Star State and the occurrences of piracy across the globe from 2009 to 2022.

Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01, suggesting a robust association between the two variables. While we refrain from jumping to hasty conclusions, our research sheds light on the intriguing possibility of a clandestine link between the genetic modification of maize in the American heartland and the daring exploits of buccaneers in far-flung waters.

We implore future researchers to pursue this line of inquiry with the same fervor and whimsical wonder that has animated our investigation. In doing so, they may unearth the buried treasures of this enigmatic correlation and bask in the delight of intellectual discovery.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The confluence of genetically modified organism (GMO) corn cultivation in the heartland of Minnesota and the occurrence of pirate escapades on the global seas has confounded researchers and enthusiasts alike. While the initial pursuit of relevant literature led us to scholarly works by Smith (2010), Doe (2015), and Jones (2020) outlining the agronomic impacts of GMO crops, it also veered into unforeseen territories that propelled us toward the uncharted waters of pirate lore and maritime history.
In "Corn and Beyond: The Impact of GMO Cultivation on Agricultural Practices," Smith (2010) presents a comprehensive analysis of the agricultural, economic, and environmental consequences of GMO crop adoption, shedding light on the potential implications for crop yield, pesticide usage, and, regrettably, the absence of corn varieties shaped like parrots or Jolly Rogers. Similarly, Doe (2015) in "The Economics of GMOs: An In-Depth Exploration" meticulously examines the economic ramifications of GMO crop cultivation, forsaking, it seems, any mention of potential implications for nautical pursuits.
As we waded further into the depths of literature, our journey took an unexpected turn as we stumbled upon works that strayed from the traditional scholarly discourse. "Pirate Politics: Power, Plunder, and Parrots" by Blackbeard (1718) transported us to the salty seas of yore, weaving tales of swashbuckling adventures and the politics of piracy, though regrettably leaving out any references to agricultural practices or modern biotechnology. Furthermore, "Pirates of the GMO Caribbean" by Captain Cornstalk (2003) provided a whimsical yet tangential perspective on the potential nexus between GMO corn and piratical exploits, drawing parallels between sea shanties and agronomic musings.
Turning to the realm of fiction, we found solace in works such as "The Maize of the Caribbean" by Johnny Depp (2006) and "Cornfields and Cutlasses: An Epic Tale" by Cornelia Funke (2015), which, while not empirical in nature, offered intriguing narratives that stirred further contemplation of the whimsical possibilities intrinsic to our research theme.
In our unorthodox quest for the underlying mechanisms of the enigmatic correlation between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and the prevalence of pirate raids, we also drew inspiration from popular culture. Through meticulous study – and perhaps some well-deserved respite – we found that TV shows like "Deadliest Catch: Pirate Edition" and "The Great GMO Bake-Off" proved surprisingly informative, albeit slightly more in the realm of entertainment rather than scholarly inquiry.
As we continued to anchor our investigation in the existing literature, it became increasingly evident that our pursuit of knowledge in this domain was not only academically stimulating but also laced with moments of unanticipated hilarity and absurdity. Our foray into the realms of GMO agriculture and piracy has been nothing short of a rollicking adventure, punctuated by chuckles, eye-rolls, and the occasional parrot squawk.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the data amassed from the USDA and Statista yielded intriguing insights into the potential relationship between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and global pirate activity. The correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 indicated a strong positive correlation between the two variables. This suggests that as the cultivation of GMO corn in Minnesota increased, so did the frequency of pirate attacks worldwide, or perhaps pirates simply developed a keener taste for corn over the years.
Furthermore, the r-squared value of 0.9148037 indicated that approximately 91.48% of the variability in pirate attacks can be explained by the variability in GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota. It appears that the cultivation of genetically modified corn may have a more influential role in swashbuckling affairs than previously imagined.
The p-value of less than 0.01 adds another layer of intrigue to our findings, providing strong evidence to reject the null hypothesis that there is no association between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and global pirate raids. It seems that the cornfields of Minnesota may hold more secrets than just their yield.
Fig. 1 displays a visually compelling scatterplot that illustrates the robust correlation between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and pirate attacks on the high seas. This figure serves as a striking visual representation of our findings, although it regrettably does not feature any parrots or peg-legged buccaneers.
In summary, our results unearth a peculiar and compelling correlation between the agricultural practices in the heartland of America and the maritime exploits of pirates across the globe. While we maintain a cautious stance regarding causation and urge a healthy dose of skepticism, the statistical evidence indicates a remarkable association. This line of inquiry certainly spices up the discussion of agricultural influences on maritime activities, providing a fresh perspective on the potential interconnectedness of seemingly disparate domains. We hope that fellow researchers will share in our sense of wonder and embark on further investigations into this curiously captivating correlation.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our results have brought to light an unexpected yet tantalizing connection between the cultivation of genetically modified corn in Minnesota and the incidence of pirate raids globally. The striking correlation coefficient and statistically significant p-value substantiate the existence of a robust association, leaving us pondering the perplexing question: could there be a corn-fed cause behind the swashbuckling spectacles on the high seas?

Revisiting the quirky items in the literature review gives us pause for whimsical consideration. The absence of corn varieties shaped like parrots or Jolly Rogers, as highlighted by Smith (2010), may have inadvertently overlooked the potential manifestation of maize-induced maritime motifs. Similarly, while Doe (2015) meticulously examined the economic impacts of GMOs, one cannot ignore the possibility that a kernel of nautical influence may have inadvertently slipped through the cracks of economic analysis.

Our findings also shed light on the underexplored convergence of agricultural practices and maritime escapades, reminiscent of the tales spun by Captain Cornstalk (2003) and the fictional narratives of Johnny Depp (2006) and Cornelia Funke (2015). While these works may have been lighthearted in nature, they offered tantalizing hints that prompt us to explore the whimsical dimensions of our research.

The robust statistical evidence for a positive correlation between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and global pirate activity beckons us to consider the potential implications. Could it be that the proliferation of genetically modified corn has inadvertently sparked the appetites of seafaring marauders? Or perhaps pirates, known for their adaptability, have embraced a hitherto unforeseen affinity for agricultural biotechnology, incentivizing their maritime endeavors? While these musings are laced with a dash of humor and speculation, they cannot be discounted entirely in our pursuit of understanding this enigmatic correlation.

In the spirit of intellectual curiosity, we urge caution in the interpretation of our findings. While the statistical evidence is compelling, we must approach the implications with a discerning eye and consider alternative explanations. It is entirely possible that a spate of pirate attacks may have spurred a heightened demand for corn-based provisions, inadvertently driving up the cultivation of genetically modified corn in Minnesota.

As we navigate this uncharted territory, balancing the weight of statistical evidence with a touch of whimsy, we invite fellow scholars to embark on this curious voyage. Our research, while academically rigorous, invites a lighthearted spirit of inquiry into the unexpected intersections of agricultural practices and maritime lore. The vista of knowledge is vast, and we hope that our findings will inspire further exploration into the lighthearted yet thought-provoking link between GMO corn cultivation in the American heartland and the daring exploits of buccaneers at sea.


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 GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota and Pirate attacks globally. 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]]
"Grain and Rum: Unearthing the Nexus Between GMO Corn Cultivation in Minnesota and Global Pirate Raids"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the agricultural practices in the cornfields of Minnesota and the prevalence of pirate attacks on the high seas worldwide. Leveraging comprehensive data from the USDA and Statista, we exhaustively analyzed the intersection of GMO corn cultivation in the North Star State and the occurrences of piracy across the globe from 2009 to 2022.

Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01, suggesting a robust association between the two variables. While we refrain from jumping to hasty conclusions, our research sheds light on the intriguing possibility of a clandestine link between the genetic modification of maize in the American heartland and the daring exploits of buccaneers in far-flung waters.

We implore future researchers to pursue this line of inquiry with the same fervor and whimsical wonder that has animated our investigation. In doing so, they may unearth the buried treasures of this enigmatic correlation and bask in the delight of intellectual discovery.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The intersection of agriculture and maritime affairs has long captivated the imaginations of scholars and laymen alike. While one might expect such disparate fields to have as little in common as, say, a landlubber and a mermaid, our research suggests otherwise. In this paper, we unravel the enigmatic connection between the cultivation of genetically modified organism (GMO) corn in Minnesota and the swashbuckling activities of pirates on the global stage.
The widespread adoption of GMO corn in the American heartland has been a subject of fervent debate, with proponents extolling its potential to bolster yields, resist pests, and, if rumors are to be believed, germinate cornstalks shaped like Blackbeard's beard. Meanwhile, the proliferation of piracy on the high seas continues to perplex and fascinate, with Hollywood producing countless films that romanticize the adventures of scallywags and plunderers, but neglect to mention the questionable dental hygiene practices of these seafaring individuals.
However, in the pursuit of academic inquiry, it is imperative to remain anchored in empirical evidence. That is precisely why we set out to investigate whether there exists a tangible link between the cultivation of GMO corn in Minnesota and the frequency of pirate raids. We employed rigorous statistical analyses and, at times, a good deal of imagination, to disentangle this peculiar association and discern its underlying mechanisms.
By delving into this uncharted territory, we aim to not only elucidate the possible interactions between these seemingly disparate phenomena but also inject a dose of levity and whimsy into the scholarly discourse. As Mark Twain once opined, "The rumors of the demise of pirates are greatly exaggerated," or perhaps it was pirates who exaggerated their own demise – a matter for future research, perhaps.
In the following sections, we expound upon our data sources, methodology, results, and the implications of our findings. Our hope is that this investigation will arouse the curiosity of fellow researchers and provoke a hearty “yo-ho-ho” of delight in the scientific community.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the data amassed from the USDA and Statista yielded intriguing insights into the potential relationship between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and global pirate activity. The correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 indicated a strong positive correlation between the two variables. This suggests that as the cultivation of GMO corn in Minnesota increased, so did the frequency of pirate attacks worldwide, or perhaps pirates simply developed a keener taste for corn over the years.
Furthermore, the r-squared value of 0.9148037 indicated that approximately 91.48% of the variability in pirate attacks can be explained by the variability in GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota. It appears that the cultivation of genetically modified corn may have a more influential role in swashbuckling affairs than previously imagined.
The p-value of less than 0.01 adds another layer of intrigue to our findings, providing strong evidence to reject the null hypothesis that there is no association between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and global pirate raids. It seems that the cornfields of Minnesota may hold more secrets than just their yield.
Fig. 1 displays a visually compelling scatterplot that illustrates the robust correlation between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and pirate attacks on the high seas. This figure serves as a striking visual representation of our findings, although it regrettably does not feature any parrots or peg-legged buccaneers.
In summary, our results unearth a peculiar and compelling correlation between the agricultural practices in the heartland of America and the maritime exploits of pirates across the globe. While we maintain a cautious stance regarding causation and urge a healthy dose of skepticism, the statistical evidence indicates a remarkable association. This line of inquiry certainly spices up the discussion of agricultural influences on maritime activities, providing a fresh perspective on the potential interconnectedness of seemingly disparate domains. We hope that fellow researchers will share in our sense of wonder and embark on further investigations into this curiously captivating correlation.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our research offers compelling evidence of a robust association between GMO corn cultivation in Minnesota and the frequency of pirate attacks globally. The statistically significant correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 and the r-squared value of 0.9148037 suggest a remarkably strong link between these seemingly disparate phenomena. While we must exercise caution in attributing causation, it is difficult to dismiss the notion that the cultivation of genetically modified corn may have inadvertently influenced the swashbuckling escapades on the high seas. Perhaps pirates have developed a penchant for corn-based rum, leading to a corn-inspired high-seas raiding spree.

We cannot help but find this correlation as captivating as a treasure map leading to a bounty of statistical intrigue. The implications of our findings extend beyond the agricultural and maritime realms, hinting at a clandestine intertwining of agricultural practices and maritime exploits. It is as if the cornfields of Minnesota have played a role in shaping the very tides of global piracy, serving as the unlikely kernels of swashbuckling adventures.

To further elucidate the mysteries surrounding this unexpected correlation, we urge future researchers to set sail on this scholarly quest. As Sir Francis Bacon famously mused, "Knowledge is power," and in this case, the power lies in unearthing the buried treasures of this enigmatic correlation. However, we assert that no more research is needed in this area.


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 Grain and Rum: Unearthing the Nexus Between GMO Corn Cultivation in Minnesota and Global Pirate Raids. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Agricultural Anecdotes


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 Grain and Rum: Unearthing the Nexus Between GMO Corn Cultivation in Minnesota and Global Pirate Raids. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Center for Agricultural Studies and Maritime Security


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 Grain and Rum: Unearthing the Nexus Between GMO Corn Cultivation in Minnesota and Global Pirate Raids with an abstract of This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the agricultural practices in the cornfields of Minnesota and the prevalence of pirate attacks on the high seas worldwide. Leveraging comprehensive data from the USDA and Statista, we exhaustively analyzed the intersection of GMO corn cultivation in the North Star State and the occurrences of piracy across the globe from 2009 to 2022.
Our findings reveal a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9564537 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01, suggesting a robust association between the two variables. While we refrain from jumping to hasty conclusions, our research sheds light on the intriguing possibility of a clandestine link between the genetic modification of maize in the American heartland and the daring exploits of buccaneers in far-flung waters.
We implore future researchers to pursue this line of inquiry with the same fervor and whimsical wonder that has animated our investigation. In doing so, they may unearth the buried treasures of this enigmatic correlation and bask in the delight of intellectual discovery.

ChatGPT:

GMO corn cultivation, Minnesota, global pirate raids, agricultural practices, nexus, piracy occurrences, USDA data, Statista, correlation coefficient, maize genetic modification, pirate attacks, association analysis, research inquiry

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



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Data details

GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota
Detailed data title: Percent of all corn planted in Minnesota that is genetically modified to be herbicide-tolerant (HT), but not insect-resistant (Bt)
Source: USDA
See what else correlates with GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota

Pirate attacks globally
Detailed data title: Global Pirate Attack Count
Source: Statista
See what else correlates with Pirate attacks globally

Correlation r = 0.9564537 (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 = 0.9148037 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 91.5% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Pirate attacks globally) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota) over the 14 years from 2009 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 9.0E-8. 0.0000000896028514167548000000
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 0.96 in 9.0E-6% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 11,160,359 random variables You don't actually need 11 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 13 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 13 because we have two variables measured over a period of 14 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.

[ 0.86, 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.
20092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022
GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota (GMO corn %)24282922101013101098984
Pirate attacks globally (Number of Attacks)410445439297264245246191180201162195132115




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([24,28,29,22,10,10,13,10,10,9,8,9,8,4,])
array_2 = np.array([410,445,439,297,264,245,246,191,180,201,162,195,132,115,])
array_1_name = "GMO use in corn grown in Minnesota"
array_2_name = "Pirate attacks globally"

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

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



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You do not need to attribute "the spurious correlations website," and you don't even need to link here if you don't want to. I don't gain anything from pageviews. There are no ads on this site, there is nothing for sale, and I am not for hire.

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

When spoken, my last name is pronounced "vegan," like I don't eat meat.

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Correlation ID: 2052 · Black Variable ID: 730 · Red Variable ID: 488
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