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Spurious correlation #3,900 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is The distance between Neptune and Earth and the second variable is Arson in Oklahoma.  The chart goes from 1985 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

The gravitational pull from Neptune created a calming effect on the Earth's tectonic plates, leading to a reduction in seismic activity in Oklahoma. This, in turn, decreased the occurrence of fire-sparking earthquakes, ultimately lowering the instances of arson in the region.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: [Concept art] Create a surreal scene where Neptune looms dramatically close to Earth in a clear night sky, casting an otherworldly blue glow. Simultaneously, depict an individual in a desolate Oklahoma setting struggling to spray lighter fluid onto a building, with the thin stream visibly affected by the reduced gravitational pull caused by Neptune's presence. Capture the contrast between the cosmic spectacle and the mundane human activity in a visually captivating way. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.
This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: The distance between Neptune and Earth and Arson in Oklahoma. 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: Concept art Brutalism Futuristic Cybernetic art Steampunk
ChatGPT: Concept art

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both The distance between Neptune and Earth and Arson in Oklahoma, in the following situation: Because as the distance between Neptune and Earth decreases, the gravitational pull weakens, causing a reduction in the amount of lighter fluid that is able to be effectively sprayed onto buildings in Oklahoma for arson purposes.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a clear night sky, Neptune is seen much closer to Earth than usual. Its blue hues stand out against the dark backdrop of space. Meanwhile, in Oklahoma, a figure is seen attempting to spray lighter fluid onto a building, but the stream is visibly weaker due to the reduced gravitational pull caused by the proximity of Neptune.

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: [ Concept art ] and depicting this scene: In a clear night sky, Neptune is seen much closer to Earth than usual. Its blue hues stand out against the dark backdrop of space. Meanwhile, in Oklahoma, a figure is seen attempting to spray lighter fluid onto a building, but the stream is visibly weaker due to the reduced gravitational pull caused by the proximity of Neptune. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: [Concept art] Create a surreal scene where Neptune looms dramatically close to Earth in a clear night sky, casting an otherworldly blue glow. Simultaneously, depict an individual in a desolate Oklahoma setting struggling to spray lighter fluid onto a building, with the thin stream visibly affected by the reduced gravitational pull caused by Neptune's presence. Capture the contrast between the cosmic spectacle and the mundane human activity in a visually captivating way.

*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 The distance between Neptune and Earth caused Arson in Oklahoma to decrease.\Make it sound serious until the end.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Nebulous Notions: Neptune's Distance and Oklahoma's Arson

The Journal of Celestial Conundrums

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 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 write titles and abstracts of goofy academic research papers.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, and add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between Neptune and Earth and Arson in Oklahoma. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Make the title an alliteration.

Your research team used data from Caclculated using Astropy and FBI Criminal Justice Information Services to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 for 1985 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]]
Nebulous Notions: Neptune's Distance and Oklahoma's Arson

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the perplexing relationship between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma. Utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 was obtained for the years 1985 to 2022. The findings reveal a statistically significant association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena, prompting further investigation into the cosmic and terrestrial factors influencing fire-related criminal behavior. While the initial results may appear inconceivable, they point to a curious interplay between celestial mechanics and human behavior, marking a new frontier for interdisciplinary inquiry and punny astronomical puns.


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 introduction section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between Neptune and Earth and Arson in Oklahoma. 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]]
Nebulous Notions: Neptune's Distance and Oklahoma's Arson

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the perplexing relationship between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma. Utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 was obtained for the years 1985 to 2022. The findings reveal a statistically significant association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena, prompting further investigation into the cosmic and terrestrial factors influencing fire-related criminal behavior. While the initial results may appear inconceivable, they point to a curious interplay between celestial mechanics and human behavior, marking a new frontier for interdisciplinary inquiry and punny astronomical puns.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

The relationship between celestial phenomena and human behavior has long been a subject of fascination and skepticism. While the notion of cosmic bodies influencing human actions may at first seem outlandish, the field of astrology has persisted in its attempts to establish connections between planetary positions and terrestrial events. However, such endeavors have often been dismissed by the scientific community as pseudoscience, relegated to the realm of whimsy and fortune-telling. Nevertheless, the present study embarks on a more empirical exploration, seeking to unravel the potential association between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the occurrence of arson in the state of Oklahoma.

The gravitational pull of giant planets such as Neptune often captures the imagination, but to link the distant ice giant with the criminal activities of individuals in the Sooner State may appear as a far-fetched endeavor. However, our analysis, utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, reveals a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 for the years 1985 to 2022. This statistically significant association suggests a potential link between the astral and the arsonist, and prompts further inquiry into the underlying mechanisms at play.

The present investigation seeks not only to disentangle the statistical connection between these seemingly disparate elements but also to elucidate the underlying mechanisms that may underpin this unexpected correlation. As such, this study is poised to shed light on a potentially novel relationship, unearthing the intersection between cosmic happenings and earthly misdeeds. This unforeseen juxtaposition of astronomical forces and human behavior opens the door to a new frontier of inquiry, one that beckons us to delve deeper beneath the celestial surface and into the fabric of human impulse - without igniting a fiery debate, of course.

The findings of this investigation not only challenge traditional disciplinary boundaries but also underscore the need for a more interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex interplay between celestial mechanics and human actions. As we embark on this unique exploration of the cosmos and criminality, we are poised to uncover valuable insights that transcend the boundaries of individual disciplines, blending the knowledge of astrophysics and criminology in a manner that is truly out of this world.


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 The distance between Neptune and Earth and Arson in Oklahoma. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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

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

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Then devolve ever further, and mention something completely ridiculous, like you conducted literature review by reading CVS receipts.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Nebulous Notions: Neptune's Distance and Oklahoma's Arson

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the perplexing relationship between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma. Utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 was obtained for the years 1985 to 2022. The findings reveal a statistically significant association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena, prompting further investigation into the cosmic and terrestrial factors influencing fire-related criminal behavior. While the initial results may appear inconceivable, they point to a curious interplay between celestial mechanics and human behavior, marking a new frontier for interdisciplinary inquiry and punny astronomical puns.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The relationship between celestial phenomena and human behavior has long been a subject of fascination and skepticism. While the notion of cosmic bodies influencing human actions may at first seem outlandish, the field of astrology has persisted in its attempts to establish connections between planetary positions and terrestrial events. However, such endeavors have often been dismissed by the scientific community as pseudoscience, relegated to the realm of whimsy and fortune-telling. Nevertheless, the present study embarks on a more empirical exploration, seeking to unravel the potential association between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the occurrence of arson in the state of Oklahoma.
The gravitational pull of giant planets such as Neptune often captures the imagination, but to link the distant ice giant with the criminal activities of individuals in the Sooner State may appear as a far-fetched endeavor. However, our analysis, utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, reveals a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 for the years 1985 to 2022. This statistically significant association suggests a potential link between the astral and the arsonist, and prompts further inquiry into the underlying mechanisms at play.
The present investigation seeks not only to disentangle the statistical connection between these seemingly disparate elements but also to elucidate the underlying mechanisms that may underpin this unexpected correlation. As such, this study is poised to shed light on a potentially novel relationship, unearthing the intersection between cosmic happenings and earthly misdeeds. This unforeseen juxtaposition of astronomical forces and human behavior opens the door to a new frontier of inquiry, one that beckons us to delve deeper beneath the celestial surface and into the fabric of human impulse - without igniting a fiery debate, of course.
The findings of this investigation not only challenge traditional disciplinary boundaries but also underscore the need for a more interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex interplay between celestial mechanics and human actions. As we embark on this unique exploration of the cosmos and criminality, we are poised to uncover valuable insights that transcend the boundaries of individual disciplines, blending the knowledge of astrophysics and criminology in a manner that is truly out of this world.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The existing literature concerning the relationship between astronomical phenomena and criminal behavior is scant, yet diverse in its inquiries. Smith et al. (2010) expounded on the potential impact of lunar phases on human activities, albeit distant from the realm of Neptune. Their findings suggested a tentative association between the full moon and heightened nocturnal activities, while yielding equivocal results in respect to criminal conduct. In a similar vein, Doe (2015) investigated the purported link between solar flares and instances of public unrest, adding a solar spin to the cosmic conundrum. Meanwhile, Jones (2018) delved into the seasonal variations in criminal behavior, emphasizing environmental factors as potential influencers. However, none of these studies directly addressed the influence of distant planetary bodies, such as Neptune, on criminal phenomenon, leaving this association largely unexplored in the existing literature.

Turning to relevant non-fiction literature, the works of astronomer Carl Sagan, particularly "Cosmos," provide insights into the cosmic marvels that may inspire celestial contemplation, if not a celestial spark for criminal mischief. Similarly, "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry" by Neil deGrasse Tyson offers a succinct, albeit non-incendiary, overview of the cosmos that may inspire awe and perhaps, in some cases, a misguided attempt to emulate cosmic events. Odysseys into the world of fiction, such as H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds," and Ray Bradbury's "The Martian Chronicles," ignite imaginative excursions into celestial domains, where the idea of arson seems rather extraterrestrial, even if inspired by earthly phenomena.

As the inquiry into the association between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in Oklahoma steepened, a wider net had to be cast in search of relevant literature. At this juncture, unconventional sources, such as grocery store receipts and pop culture pulp fiction, were examined in a desperate attempt to unravel the mysteries at hand. The analysis of CVS receipts provided little insight, except for the recurring offer of lighter fluid and matches, seemingly unrelated to the purchase of extraterrestrial paraphernalia. Meanwhile, pulp fiction novels, including "Neptunian Nights" and "Arson on Astrometry Avenue," tantalizingly teased at the convergence of astronomical intrigue and criminal pursuit without providing any substantive evidence to support the claimed connection. Thus, the gulf between scholarly pursuits and outright absurdity in this interdisciplinary quest remains as vast as the expanse between the distant ice giant and the fiery antics of wrongdoers in Oklahoma.


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 The distance between Neptune and Earth and Arson in Oklahoma. 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 Caclculated using Astropy and FBI Criminal Justice Information Services . You used data from 1985 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]]
Nebulous Notions: Neptune's Distance and Oklahoma's Arson

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the perplexing relationship between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma. Utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 was obtained for the years 1985 to 2022. The findings reveal a statistically significant association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena, prompting further investigation into the cosmic and terrestrial factors influencing fire-related criminal behavior. While the initial results may appear inconceivable, they point to a curious interplay between celestial mechanics and human behavior, marking a new frontier for interdisciplinary inquiry and punny astronomical puns.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The relationship between celestial phenomena and human behavior has long been a subject of fascination and skepticism. While the notion of cosmic bodies influencing human actions may at first seem outlandish, the field of astrology has persisted in its attempts to establish connections between planetary positions and terrestrial events. However, such endeavors have often been dismissed by the scientific community as pseudoscience, relegated to the realm of whimsy and fortune-telling. Nevertheless, the present study embarks on a more empirical exploration, seeking to unravel the potential association between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the occurrence of arson in the state of Oklahoma.
The gravitational pull of giant planets such as Neptune often captures the imagination, but to link the distant ice giant with the criminal activities of individuals in the Sooner State may appear as a far-fetched endeavor. However, our analysis, utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, reveals a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 for the years 1985 to 2022. This statistically significant association suggests a potential link between the astral and the arsonist, and prompts further inquiry into the underlying mechanisms at play.
The present investigation seeks not only to disentangle the statistical connection between these seemingly disparate elements but also to elucidate the underlying mechanisms that may underpin this unexpected correlation. As such, this study is poised to shed light on a potentially novel relationship, unearthing the intersection between cosmic happenings and earthly misdeeds. This unforeseen juxtaposition of astronomical forces and human behavior opens the door to a new frontier of inquiry, one that beckons us to delve deeper beneath the celestial surface and into the fabric of human impulse - without igniting a fiery debate, of course.
The findings of this investigation not only challenge traditional disciplinary boundaries but also underscore the need for a more interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex interplay between celestial mechanics and human actions. As we embark on this unique exploration of the cosmos and criminality, we are poised to uncover valuable insights that transcend the boundaries of individual disciplines, blending the knowledge of astrophysics and criminology in a manner that is truly out of this world.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

Data Collection:
The first step in this study involved the collection of relevant data pertaining to the distance between Neptune and Earth and the occurrences of arson in Oklahoma. The astronomical data on the position of Neptune was obtained from Astropy, a comprehensive library for astronomy computations. This included precise calculations of Neptune's distance from Earth for the years 1985 to 2022, allowing for an expansive temporal analysis of its celestial antics. Moreover, the incidence of arson in Oklahoma was extracted from the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, providing a comprehensive record of fire-related criminal activity within the state over the same time period. The combination of these diverse data sources facilitated a multi-dimensional analysis that scrutinized both the extraterrestrial and terrestrial realms.

Normalization:
To account for fluctuations in the frequency of arson incidents over the years under investigation, the arson data was meticulously normalized to control for any temporal variations. This normalization process ensured that the analytical focus remained on the relative changes in arson occurrences, rather than being skewed by temporal shifts in criminal reporting or law enforcement practices. Similarly, the astronomical data on Neptune's distance from Earth underwent a normalization process to remove any seasonal or cyclical patterns that could potentially confound the analysis. By normalizing both sets of data, the study minimized the risk of drawing erroneous conclusions driven by temporal fluctuations, thus bolstering the robustness of the analytical approach.

Statistical Analysis:
The core of this investigation involved a rigorous statistical analysis to explore the potential relationship between Neptune's distance from Earth and instances of arson in Oklahoma. The correlation between these two variables was assessed through the calculation of Pearson’s correlation coefficient, which served as a quantitative measure of the strength and direction of the association. Additionally, the significance of the observed correlation was evaluated using a two-tailed t-test, with a threshold significance level of p < 0.01 deemed as indicative of a statistically meaningful relationship. These statistical analyses, performed with due diligence and statistical rigor, enabled the quantification of the celestial-terrestrial interplay and the discernment of any underlying patterns that might underpin this intriguing nexus.

Unforeseen Observations:
As our research team delved into the depths of this unconventional inquiry, we encountered unexpected observations that, while not directly aligned with our initial hypothesis, merit acknowledgment. In the course of the analysis, a peculiar pattern emerged, suggesting a potential oscillatory rhythm in the occurrences of arson that bore semblance to the periodicity of Neptune's orbital motion. While this unanticipated convergence of temporal cadences hints at a possible temporal synchronization between celestial perturbations and human transgressions, it necessitates further investigation and validation through complementary analytical methods. Moreover, the temporal alignment of these seemingly disparate phenomena raises intriguing questions about the intertwined nature of celestial mechanics and earthly events, casting a shadow of cosmic intrigue over our empirical journey.

Overall, the methodological framework adopted in this study amalgamated astronomical insights with criminological data, culminating in a comprehensive analysis that brought Neptune and arson into an unprecedented cosmic tango. The robustness of the data collection, normalization procedures, and statistical analyses ensured the reliability of the findings, thereby substantiating the scientific inquiry into this ethereal affair of solar system shenanigans and criminal conundrums.


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 results section of an academic research paper. You speak in the past tense (you found...).
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between Neptune and Earth and Arson in Oklahoma. 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 Caclculated using Astropy and FBI Criminal Justice Information Services .

For the time period 1985 to 2022, you found a correlation 0.9565707, r-squared of 0.9150274, 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]]
Nebulous Notions: Neptune's Distance and Oklahoma's Arson

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the perplexing relationship between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma. Utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 was obtained for the years 1985 to 2022. The findings reveal a statistically significant association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena, prompting further investigation into the cosmic and terrestrial factors influencing fire-related criminal behavior. While the initial results may appear inconceivable, they point to a curious interplay between celestial mechanics and human behavior, marking a new frontier for interdisciplinary inquiry and punny astronomical puns.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The relationship between celestial phenomena and human behavior has long been a subject of fascination and skepticism. While the notion of cosmic bodies influencing human actions may at first seem outlandish, the field of astrology has persisted in its attempts to establish connections between planetary positions and terrestrial events. However, such endeavors have often been dismissed by the scientific community as pseudoscience, relegated to the realm of whimsy and fortune-telling. Nevertheless, the present study embarks on a more empirical exploration, seeking to unravel the potential association between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the occurrence of arson in the state of Oklahoma.
The gravitational pull of giant planets such as Neptune often captures the imagination, but to link the distant ice giant with the criminal activities of individuals in the Sooner State may appear as a far-fetched endeavor. However, our analysis, utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, reveals a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 for the years 1985 to 2022. This statistically significant association suggests a potential link between the astral and the arsonist, and prompts further inquiry into the underlying mechanisms at play.
The present investigation seeks not only to disentangle the statistical connection between these seemingly disparate elements but also to elucidate the underlying mechanisms that may underpin this unexpected correlation. As such, this study is poised to shed light on a potentially novel relationship, unearthing the intersection between cosmic happenings and earthly misdeeds. This unforeseen juxtaposition of astronomical forces and human behavior opens the door to a new frontier of inquiry, one that beckons us to delve deeper beneath the celestial surface and into the fabric of human impulse - without igniting a fiery debate, of course.
The findings of this investigation not only challenge traditional disciplinary boundaries but also underscore the need for a more interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex interplay between celestial mechanics and human actions. As we embark on this unique exploration of the cosmos and criminality, we are poised to uncover valuable insights that transcend the boundaries of individual disciplines, blending the knowledge of astrophysics and criminology in a manner that is truly out of this world.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The analysis revealed a noteworthy correlation between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma for the years 1985 to 2022. The correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and an r-squared value of 0.9150274 denote a strong linear relationship between these seemingly divergent variables. The p-value of less than 0.01 further supports the statistical significance of this peculiar association, emphasizing the plausibility of a genuine connection.

The scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually depicts the striking correlation, showcasing the tight clustering of data points around the best-fit line. The pattern is remarkable, akin to the alignment of celestial bodies in a cosmic dance, or perhaps the precise maneuvers of an experienced fire dancer – metaphorically speaking, of course.

While the initial discovery may raise eyebrows and elicit skepticism, the findings encourage a reexamination of the traditional boundaries between celestial mechanics and criminology. The unexpected coherence between the distance of Neptune and arson in Oklahoma invites imaginative contemplation, inciting whisperings of cosmic conspiracy and sparking curiosity about the invisible forces at play. These results beckon researchers to gaze skyward for answers to earthly enigmas, reminding us that in the realm of statistical correlations, truth can indeed be stranger than fiction.

The robustness of the statistical measures underscores the validity of the uncovered relationship, suggesting a cosmic camaraderie between the icy exterior of Neptune and the fiery deeds on terrestrial soil. While the results do not lend themselves to causal interpretation, they do prompt the consideration of potential mediating factors, whether they be atmospheric perturbations or cosmic influences on the human psyche. The data engender a sense of cosmic intrigue, raising questions about whether Neptune's distant allure might kindle an inner conflagration in the hearts of individuals thousands of miles away.

In summary, the findings of this analysis, though enigmatic, present a rallying cry for further investigation into the interplanetary interplay between celestial dynamics and criminal propensities. As the study's title suggests, these nebulous notions invite contemplation of the uncharted territory where the celestial and the criminal converge, igniting intellectual sparks that illuminate the vast expanse of the cosmic and the criminal in ways previously unimagined.


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 The distance between Neptune and Earth and Arson in Oklahoma. 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]]
Nebulous Notions: Neptune's Distance and Oklahoma's Arson

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the perplexing relationship between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma. Utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 was obtained for the years 1985 to 2022. The findings reveal a statistically significant association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena, prompting further investigation into the cosmic and terrestrial factors influencing fire-related criminal behavior. While the initial results may appear inconceivable, they point to a curious interplay between celestial mechanics and human behavior, marking a new frontier for interdisciplinary inquiry and punny astronomical puns.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The existing literature concerning the relationship between astronomical phenomena and criminal behavior is scant, yet diverse in its inquiries. Smith et al. (2010) expounded on the potential impact of lunar phases on human activities, albeit distant from the realm of Neptune. Their findings suggested a tentative association between the full moon and heightened nocturnal activities, while yielding equivocal results in respect to criminal conduct. In a similar vein, Doe (2015) investigated the purported link between solar flares and instances of public unrest, adding a solar spin to the cosmic conundrum. Meanwhile, Jones (2018) delved into the seasonal variations in criminal behavior, emphasizing environmental factors as potential influencers. However, none of these studies directly addressed the influence of distant planetary bodies, such as Neptune, on criminal phenomenon, leaving this association largely unexplored in the existing literature.
Turning to relevant non-fiction literature, the works of astronomer Carl Sagan, particularly "Cosmos," provide insights into the cosmic marvels that may inspire celestial contemplation, if not a celestial spark for criminal mischief. Similarly, "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry" by Neil deGrasse Tyson offers a succinct, albeit non-incendiary, overview of the cosmos that may inspire awe and perhaps, in some cases, a misguided attempt to emulate cosmic events. Odysseys into the world of fiction, such as H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds," and Ray Bradbury's "The Martian Chronicles," ignite imaginative excursions into celestial domains, where the idea of arson seems rather extraterrestrial, even if inspired by earthly phenomena.
As the inquiry into the association between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in Oklahoma steepened, a wider net had to be cast in search of relevant literature. At this juncture, unconventional sources, such as grocery store receipts and pop culture pulp fiction, were examined in a desperate attempt to unravel the mysteries at hand. The analysis of CVS receipts provided little insight, except for the recurring offer of lighter fluid and matches, seemingly unrelated to the purchase of extraterrestrial paraphernalia. Meanwhile, pulp fiction novels, including "Neptunian Nights" and "Arson on Astrometry Avenue," tantalizingly teased at the convergence of astronomical intrigue and criminal pursuit without providing any substantive evidence to support the claimed connection. Thus, the gulf between scholarly pursuits and outright absurdity in this interdisciplinary quest remains as vast as the expanse between the distant ice giant and the fiery antics of wrongdoers in Oklahoma.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis revealed a noteworthy correlation between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma for the years 1985 to 2022. The correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and an r-squared value of 0.9150274 denote a strong linear relationship between these seemingly divergent variables. The p-value of less than 0.01 further supports the statistical significance of this peculiar association, emphasizing the plausibility of a genuine connection.
The scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually depicts the striking correlation, showcasing the tight clustering of data points around the best-fit line. The pattern is remarkable, akin to the alignment of celestial bodies in a cosmic dance, or perhaps the precise maneuvers of an experienced fire dancer – metaphorically speaking, of course.
While the initial discovery may raise eyebrows and elicit skepticism, the findings encourage a reexamination of the traditional boundaries between celestial mechanics and criminology. The unexpected coherence between the distance of Neptune and arson in Oklahoma invites imaginative contemplation, inciting whisperings of cosmic conspiracy and sparking curiosity about the invisible forces at play. These results beckon researchers to gaze skyward for answers to earthly enigmas, reminding us that in the realm of statistical correlations, truth can indeed be stranger than fiction.
The robustness of the statistical measures underscores the validity of the uncovered relationship, suggesting a cosmic camaraderie between the icy exterior of Neptune and the fiery deeds on terrestrial soil. While the results do not lend themselves to causal interpretation, they do prompt the consideration of potential mediating factors, whether they be atmospheric perturbations or cosmic influences on the human psyche. The data engender a sense of cosmic intrigue, raising questions about whether Neptune's distant allure might kindle an inner conflagration in the hearts of individuals thousands of miles away.
In summary, the findings of this analysis, though enigmatic, present a rallying cry for further investigation into the interplanetary interplay between celestial dynamics and criminal propensities. As the study's title suggests, these nebulous notions invite contemplation of the uncharted territory where the celestial and the criminal converge, igniting intellectual sparks that illuminate the vast expanse of the cosmic and the criminal in ways previously unimagined.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The notable correlation between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma supports previous research that has hinted at the potential influence of astronomical phenomena on terrestrial activities. Smith et al.'s (2010) exploration of lunar phases and human behavior, while unrelated to Neptune, laid the groundwork for considering celestial bodies' impact on earthly actions. Similarly, Doe's (2015) investigation into solar flares and public unrest, albeit far more explosive than our present inquiry, underscores the plausibility of cosmic events affecting human conduct. Jones’ (2018) investigation into seasonal variations in criminal behavior further emphasizes the role of environmental factors, albeit with a less cosmic focus.

The unexpected coherence between the distance of Neptune and arson in Oklahoma invites imaginative contemplation, suggesting a potential cosmic connection to criminal behavior. These results prompt consideration of potential mediating factors, whether they are atmospheric perturbations or celestial influences on the human psyche. This study offers empirical evidence supporting the notion that celestial mechanics may not be entirely detached from terrestrial affairs.

As the inquiry deepens, the association between Neptune's distance and arson in Oklahoma raises questions about whether cosmic forces might kindle an inner conflagration in the hearts of individuals thousands of miles away. The intimate connection between the icy exterior of Neptune and the fiery deeds on terrestrial soil, as depicted by the robust statistical measures, compels a reevaluation of our understanding of the intricate interplay between celestial mechanics and human behavior.

In conclusion, the statistically significant association between Neptune's distance and arson in Oklahoma prompts further investigation into this unconventional connection. These findings open a portal to a new realm of interdisciplinary inquiry, where the astronomical and the criminal intertwine in ways previously unimagined. Future research endeavors may yet unveil the cosmic mysteries underlying earthly phenomena, shedding light on the cosmic and the criminal in unprecedented ways.


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 The distance between Neptune and Earth and Arson in Oklahoma. 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]]
Nebulous Notions: Neptune's Distance and Oklahoma's Arson

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study examines the perplexing relationship between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma. Utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 was obtained for the years 1985 to 2022. The findings reveal a statistically significant association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena, prompting further investigation into the cosmic and terrestrial factors influencing fire-related criminal behavior. While the initial results may appear inconceivable, they point to a curious interplay between celestial mechanics and human behavior, marking a new frontier for interdisciplinary inquiry and punny astronomical puns.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The relationship between celestial phenomena and human behavior has long been a subject of fascination and skepticism. While the notion of cosmic bodies influencing human actions may at first seem outlandish, the field of astrology has persisted in its attempts to establish connections between planetary positions and terrestrial events. However, such endeavors have often been dismissed by the scientific community as pseudoscience, relegated to the realm of whimsy and fortune-telling. Nevertheless, the present study embarks on a more empirical exploration, seeking to unravel the potential association between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the occurrence of arson in the state of Oklahoma.
The gravitational pull of giant planets such as Neptune often captures the imagination, but to link the distant ice giant with the criminal activities of individuals in the Sooner State may appear as a far-fetched endeavor. However, our analysis, utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, reveals a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 for the years 1985 to 2022. This statistically significant association suggests a potential link between the astral and the arsonist, and prompts further inquiry into the underlying mechanisms at play.
The present investigation seeks not only to disentangle the statistical connection between these seemingly disparate elements but also to elucidate the underlying mechanisms that may underpin this unexpected correlation. As such, this study is poised to shed light on a potentially novel relationship, unearthing the intersection between cosmic happenings and earthly misdeeds. This unforeseen juxtaposition of astronomical forces and human behavior opens the door to a new frontier of inquiry, one that beckons us to delve deeper beneath the celestial surface and into the fabric of human impulse - without igniting a fiery debate, of course.
The findings of this investigation not only challenge traditional disciplinary boundaries but also underscore the need for a more interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex interplay between celestial mechanics and human actions. As we embark on this unique exploration of the cosmos and criminality, we are poised to uncover valuable insights that transcend the boundaries of individual disciplines, blending the knowledge of astrophysics and criminology in a manner that is truly out of this world.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis revealed a noteworthy correlation between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma for the years 1985 to 2022. The correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and an r-squared value of 0.9150274 denote a strong linear relationship between these seemingly divergent variables. The p-value of less than 0.01 further supports the statistical significance of this peculiar association, emphasizing the plausibility of a genuine connection.
The scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually depicts the striking correlation, showcasing the tight clustering of data points around the best-fit line. The pattern is remarkable, akin to the alignment of celestial bodies in a cosmic dance, or perhaps the precise maneuvers of an experienced fire dancer – metaphorically speaking, of course.
While the initial discovery may raise eyebrows and elicit skepticism, the findings encourage a reexamination of the traditional boundaries between celestial mechanics and criminology. The unexpected coherence between the distance of Neptune and arson in Oklahoma invites imaginative contemplation, inciting whisperings of cosmic conspiracy and sparking curiosity about the invisible forces at play. These results beckon researchers to gaze skyward for answers to earthly enigmas, reminding us that in the realm of statistical correlations, truth can indeed be stranger than fiction.
The robustness of the statistical measures underscores the validity of the uncovered relationship, suggesting a cosmic camaraderie between the icy exterior of Neptune and the fiery deeds on terrestrial soil. While the results do not lend themselves to causal interpretation, they do prompt the consideration of potential mediating factors, whether they be atmospheric perturbations or cosmic influences on the human psyche. The data engender a sense of cosmic intrigue, raising questions about whether Neptune's distant allure might kindle an inner conflagration in the hearts of individuals thousands of miles away.
In summary, the findings of this analysis, though enigmatic, present a rallying cry for further investigation into the interplanetary interplay between celestial dynamics and criminal propensities. As the study's title suggests, these nebulous notions invite contemplation of the uncharted territory where the celestial and the criminal converge, igniting intellectual sparks that illuminate the vast expanse of the cosmic and the criminal in ways previously unimagined.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, the statistical analysis conducted in this study revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in Oklahoma. The findings, though seemingly preposterous, bring to light the tantalizing possibility of a cosmic connection to the combustible inclinations of the denizens of the Sooner State.

The results underscore the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the mysterious interplay between celestial mechanics and human behavior. While the observed correlation is robust, it should be noted that correlation does not imply causation, as tempting as it may be to envision Neptune somehow whispering subliminal pyromaniacal suggestions to individuals across interplanetary distances.

These unexpected, yet statistically sound, findings lay the groundwork for a novel interdisciplinary approach, inviting collaboration between astronomers, criminologists, and perhaps even astrologers -a thought that might elicit a raised eyebrow or two. However, it is of utmost importance to approach such collaborations with an open mind, a healthy skepticism, and a healthy dose of humor, as we navigate the mysterious terrain where the celestial and the criminal converge.

In light of the statistical robustness and the broad ramifications of these findings, the authors assert that further research in this domain is not warranted, and that the universe's penchant for mischief and surprise should be celebrated, if not entirely comprehended. After all, as the saying goes, "Where there's smoke, there's statistically significant fire-related data."


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 Nebulous Notions: Neptune's Distance and Oklahoma's Arson. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Celestial Conundrums


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 Nebulous Notions: Neptune's Distance and Oklahoma's Arson. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Institute for Celestial Phenomena and Unexplained Combustion


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 Nebulous Notions: Neptune's Distance and Oklahoma's Arson with an abstract of This study examines the perplexing relationship between the distance of Neptune from Earth and the incidence of arson in the state of Oklahoma. Utilizing data from Astropy's astronomical calculations and the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, a correlation coefficient of 0.9565707 and p < 0.01 was obtained for the years 1985 to 2022. The findings reveal a statistically significant association between these seemingly unrelated phenomena, prompting further investigation into the cosmic and terrestrial factors influencing fire-related criminal behavior. While the initial results may appear inconceivable, they point to a curious interplay between celestial mechanics and human behavior, marking a new frontier for interdisciplinary inquiry and punny astronomical puns.

ChatGPT:

Neptune distance, Neptune correlation, Oklahoma arson, astropy data, FBI arson statistics, celestial mechanics, criminal behavior, interdisciplinary research

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



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Data details

The distance between Neptune and Earth
Detailed data title: The average distance between Neptune and Earth as measured on the first day of each month
Source: Caclculated using Astropy
Additional Info: I wrote a Python script using Astropy to calculate the distance between the named planets on the first day of each month for every year.

See what else correlates with The distance between Neptune and Earth

Arson in Oklahoma
Detailed data title: The arson rate per 100,000 residents in Oklahoma
Source: FBI Criminal Justice Information Services
See what else correlates with Arson in Oklahoma

Correlation r = 0.9565707 (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 = 0.9150274 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 91.5% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Arson in Oklahoma) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., The distance between Neptune and Earth) over the 38 years from 1985 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 7.3E-21. 0.0000000000000000000073454415
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 7.3E-19% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 136,138,855,642,645,856,256 random variables You don't actually need 136 quintillion 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 37 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 37 because we have two variables measured over a period of 38 years. It's just the number of years minus ( the number of variables minus one ), which in this case simplifies to the number of years minus one.
you would randomly expect to find a correlation as strong as this one.

[ 0.92, 0.98 ] 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.
19851986198719881989199019911992199319941995199619971998199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022
The distance between Neptune and Earth (Planetary distance (AU))30.233330.224530.214830.205830.195630.187130.179530.172930.16630.159430.152130.143730.134230.123430.111830.099430.088130.077230.067430.057930.051230.044330.037430.028930.021930.012830.002829.990729.981729.971829.962829.953229.948829.943429.938729.931729.928629.9224
Arson in Oklahoma (Arson rate)47.667.956.854.256.651.251.743.344.846.146.551.740.138.939.437.232.533.634.733.134.2343034.624.727.526.725.221.620.719.219.918.719.919.522.721.219.3




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.
  4. 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. 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.
  5. Outlandish outliers: There are "outliers" in this data. In concept, "outlier" just means "way different than the rest of your dataset." When calculating a correlation like this, they are particularly impactful because a single outlier can substantially increase your correlation.

    For the purposes of this project, I counted a point as an outlier if it the residual was two standard deviations from the mean.

    (This bullet point only shows up in the details page on charts that do, in fact, have outliers.)
    They stand out on the scatterplot above: notice the dots that are far away from any other dots. I intentionally mishandeled outliers, which makes the correlation look extra strong.




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([30.2333,30.2245,30.2148,30.2058,30.1956,30.1871,30.1795,30.1729,30.166,30.1594,30.1521,30.1437,30.1342,30.1234,30.1118,30.0994,30.0881,30.0772,30.0674,30.0579,30.0512,30.0443,30.0374,30.0289,30.0219,30.0128,30.0028,29.9907,29.9817,29.9718,29.9628,29.9532,29.9488,29.9434,29.9387,29.9317,29.9286,29.9224,])
array_2 = np.array([47.6,67.9,56.8,54.2,56.6,51.2,51.7,43.3,44.8,46.1,46.5,51.7,40.1,38.9,39.4,37.2,32.5,33.6,34.7,33.1,34.2,34,30,34.6,24.7,27.5,26.7,25.2,21.6,20.7,19.2,19.9,18.7,19.9,19.5,22.7,21.2,19.3,])
array_1_name = "The distance between Neptune and Earth"
array_2_name = "Arson in Oklahoma"

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

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



Reuseable content

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

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

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

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

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Correlation ID: 3900 · Black Variable ID: 1941 · Red Variable ID: 20065
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