MIT-CLX-5599, astre-qh/0005325

The Tyler Effect: A Desktop Background Check
Caleb Hamilton, Amelia Tanner, Grace P Thornton
The Journal of Internet Anthropology
The Society for Quirky Desktop Studies
Madison, Wisconsin

Abstract
This study delves into the curious connection between the popularity of the first name Tyler andGoogle searches for "desktop background." Using data from the US Social Security
Administration and Google Trends, our research team endeavored to shed light on this peculiar
phenomenon. The findings revealed a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9910270 anda statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the years 2007 to 2022. Through rigorous
analysis, we have unearthed a comical correlation between the frequency of the name Tyler andthe quest for desktop aesthetics. It seems that people named Tyler have a knack for setting thebackground, not only in their personal lives but also on their digital screens. It appears that theexpressive urge to personalize extends beyond nomenclature and into the digital realm,
manifesting in the form of virtual desktop adornments. In conclusion, the Tyler Effect, as we havefondly coined it, presents a captivating case of nominative determinism intersecting with digitalaesthetics. The correlation between the first name Tyler and Google searches for "desktopbackground" is indeed a prime example of serendipitous patterns in the digital age. This study not
only provides a quirky insight into human behavior but also underscores the intriguing ways inwhich individual names may unwittingly influence online preferences.

1. Introduction

The relationship between nomenclature and human behavior has long intrigued
researchers across various disciplines, prompting investigations into the influence ofnames on life outcomes. It brings to mind the classic joke: "What do you call a bear withno teeth? A gummy bear." In a similar vein, our study delves into the correlation between
the popularity of the first name Tyler and Google searches for "desktop background,"revealing an unexpected connection that is not simply a matter of bear necessity.

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchAs researchers, we cannot resist the gravitational pull of an intriguing enigma, especiallywhen it involves both nomenclature and digital aesthetics. The quest to unravel themystery behind the Tyler Effect has led us down a path paved with data sets, statisticalanalyses, and the occasional humorous aside. Like a desktop background that shifts fromseason to season, our investigation uncovers a whimsical pattern that defies conventionalexpectation.
While the road to scientific discovery is often paved with serious intentions, theoccasional detour into the realm of puns and wordplay adds a touch of levity to theanalytical process. Just as a well-timed dad joke can elicit an involuntary groan, ourfindings are bound to evoke a similar blend of amusement and bemusement, shining alighthearted spotlight on the intricate interplay between nomenclature and digitalproclivities.
With a firm grounding in empirical evidence and a sprinkling of witticism, the following
sections of this paper will elucidate the empirical foundation of the Tyler Effect, shedding
light on the remarkable correlation between the first name Tyler and the quest for digitaladornments. As we embark on this scholarly adventure, it is our hope that readers will
join us in appreciating the unexpected humor and insight that arise from the intersectionof nomenclature and digital whimsy. After all, what do you call a fake noodle? Animpasta. And like the genuine article, our research endeavors to uncover the real
implications behind the seemingly lighthearted connection between a name and a digitalquest.

2. Literature Review

The connection between nomenclature and behavioral patterns has been of interest toresearchers for decades. Smith and Doe (2010) investigated the influence of first names
on personal and professional outcomes, highlighting the role of nominative determinism
in shaping individual trajectories. Jones (2015) delved into the psychological implicationsof nomenclature, exploring the subconscious associations evoked by different names.
In "The Name Game" by Johnson (2017), the author delves into the idiosyncrasies ofpopular names and their potential impact on everyday life. Similarly, in "The Power ofNaming" by Brown (2018), the nuanced effects of names on individual behavior areexamined, offering intriguing insights into the subtle yet significant influence ofnomenclature.
Moving from non-fiction to fiction, works such as "The Name Effect" by Harper (2019)and "Moniker Mysteries" by Adams (2020) present fictional explorations of theintriguing connections between names and human behavior, delving into the realms of
mystery and whimsy.

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-research

Further inspiration can be found in board games such as "Codenames," which, while notdirectly related to the topic at hand, serves as a playful reminder of the impactful natureof words and associations, whether in the context of espionage or digital aesthetics.
Just as a good dad joke adds a dash of humor to any conversation, our exploration of theTyler Effect aims to inject a lighthearted element into the scholarly discourse, revealing
unexpected connections and sparking a sense of curiosity and amusement in the process.

3. Research Approach

The methodology employed in this study involved a comprehensive analysis of dataobtained from the US Social Security Administration's database of first names andGoogle Trends' repository of search trends. The selection of these data sources was basedon their wide-ranging coverage and reliability, as well as their compatibility with ourresearch question regarding the relationship between the frequency of the first name Tyler
and the search interest for "desktop background." To ensure a thorough investigation, dataspanning the years 2007 to 2022 was collected and meticulously scrutinized.
Like a well-crafted dad joke, the process of data collection and preparation was both
systematic and laced with a touch of whimsy. The US Social Security Administration
provided us with the frequency of first names bestowed upon newborns each year,
enabling us to trace the trajectory of the name Tyler's popularity over the selected
timeframe. Meanwhile, Google Trends furnished us with the relative search interest for
the term "desktop background" over the same period, offering a window into the digitalpursuit of aesthetic desktop customization.
The blend of these data sources in our analysis is akin to the unexpected pairing of peanutbutter and jelly - seemingly incongruous at first, but ultimately resulting in a harmoniouscombination. The collection and integration of these diverse datasets formed thecornerstone of our investigation, allowing us to unveil the captivating correlation between
the name Tyler and the search inquiries for desktop adornments.
To quantify the relationship between the popularity of the name Tyler and Google
searches for "desktop background," a series of statistical analyses was conducted.
Utilizing a mixture of regression models and time series analysis, we endeavored tocapture the essence of this intriguing correlation, much like a photographer seeking toencapsulate the essence of a whimsical scene in a single snapshot.
The statistical models proved to be our trusty companions in unraveling the enigma of theTyler Effect, facilitating a robust examination of the association between the frequency ofthe name Tyler and the search interest for "desktop background." Through theseanalytical techniques, we navigated the labyrinth of data with both precision and a fairThis paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchshare of statistical humor, revealing the compelling patterns underlying the curious
intersection of nomenclature and digital preferences.
In addition, a series of sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure the robustness of ourfindings, much like double-checking the punchline of a particularly clever dad joke toguarantee its universal appeal. These supplementary analyses served as a form of quality
control, validating the stability and consistency of the observed correlation within varying
methodological frameworks, bolstering the reliability of our results.
The careful application of these methods allowed us to shed light on the captivating link
between the prevalence of the first name Tyler and the quest for aesthetic desktop
embellishments, illuminating an unexpected connection that unfolds in the digitallandscape. Much like a well-timed punchline, the methodology employed in this study ispoised to elicit both intellectual curiosity and an appreciative chuckle, embodying thespirit of rigorous inquiry with a sprinkle of scholarly whimsy.

4. Findings

The statistical analysis of the data revealed a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of
0.9910270 between the frequency of the first name Tyler and Google searches for"desktop background" for the years 2007 to 2022. This finding suggests that there is arobust relationship between the nomenclature and the digital penchant for aesthetic
customization, akin to a well-crafted knock-knock joke.
Moreover, the r-squared value of 0.9821346 indicates that approximately 98.21% of thevariability in "desktop background" searches can be explained by the prevalence of thename Tyler. This suggests a high degree of predictability in the digital behavior
associated with this particular first name. It seems that the name Tyler carries an invisible
allure, much like a clever play on words entices a chuckle.
The p-value of less than 0.01 further underscores the significance of the correlation,
indicating a very low probability that the observed relationship is due to random chance.
This statistical evidence supports the notion that there is a genuine, non-spurious
association between the popularity of the name Tyler and the inclination toward digitalbackground adornments. It appears that the name Tyler possesses a certain charm, much
like a cleverly timed dad joke.

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-research

Figure 1. Scatterplot of the variables by year
In Fig. 1, the scatterplot visually depicts the strong positive correlation between the twovariables, with a discernible upward trend that reflects the heightened penchant for"desktop background" searches corresponding to the prevalence of the name Tyler. Like awell-timed punchline, the graph presents a clear and compelling narrative of theintriguing relationship between nomenclature and digital predilections.
Overall, the results of this study elucidate a compelling association between thepopularity of the first name Tyler and the frequency of Google searches for "desktopbackground." The statistical evidence not only confirms the existence of this unexpected
correlation but also adds a whimsical dimension to the influence of nomenclature on
digital behavior — a discovery that is as satisfying as a well-told dad joke.

5. Discussion on findings

The findings of this study provide substantial support for the connection between thepopularity of the first name Tyler and Google searches for "desktop background." Thestrong correlation coefficient and statistically significant p-value validate the existence ofa noteworthy relationship, much like a punchline that lands just right. The r-squared value
further highlights the predictability of the relationship, akin to the reliability of a welltimed dad joke.
The literature review offered insightful perspectives on the influence of nomenclature on
human behavior, and the results of this study have lent empirical credence to these
theoretical considerations. Smith and Doe (2010) and Johnson (2017) laid the foundation
for understanding the impact of names on personal inclinations, and the Tyler Effectserves as a compelling real-world manifestation of this phenomenon. It seems that theinfluence of the name Tyler extends beyond personal and professional outcomes,
reaching into the digital domain with a flair that rivals a clever pun.

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-research

The robust statistical evidence presented in this study not only substantiates the existenceof the Tyler Effect but also adds a touch of lighthearted whimsy to the scholarly
discourse. This unexpected correlation between nomenclature and digital preferences
captures the essence of a well-crafted dad joke — surprising, amusing, and thoughtprovoking. It appears that the name Tyler exerts a certain charm that transcends
traditional notions of nomenclature, much like a charming dad joke that elicits a knowing
chuckle.
The scatterplot visualization provides a clear depiction of the positive correlation
between the frequency of the name Tyler and Google searches for "desktop background,"offering a visual narrative that parallels the delivery of a well-timed punchline. The
statistical significance of the relationship further underscores the intriguing nature of thiscorrelation, adding a layer of intellectual amusement to the academic landscape, notunlike a well-placed pun in a scholarly article.
In conclusion, the Tyler Effect stands as a testament to the nuanced ways in which
nomenclature intersects with digital behavior, evoking a sense of curiosity akin to thelikelihood of a well-received dad joke. This study not only contributes to the growing
body of literature on the influence of names but also introduces a playful dimension toscholarly inquiry, much like the inclusion of a clever dad joke in the most unexpected ofcontexts.

6. Conclusion

In summary, our investigation into the Tyler Effect has uncovered a delightful association
between the first name Tyler and Google searches for "desktop background." It appears
that individuals bearing this name exhibit a penchant for customizing not only theirpersonal lives but also their virtual workspaces. Much like a well-crafted dad joke, thecorrelation between nomenclature and digital proclivities is a source of both amusement
and fascination.
The findings of our study not only highlight the unexpected humor inherent in theintersection of nomenclature and digital aesthetics, but also underscore the intriguing
ways in which individual names may unwittingly influence online preferences. It seems
that the name Tyler carries a certain magnetic charm, much like a classic dad joke thatnever fails to elicit a groan and a chuckle simultaneously.
Therefore, we can confidently assert that the Tyler Effect is a charming manifestation of
the interplay between names and digital inclinations, akin to the enduring appeal of atime-tested dad joke. It is an intriguing discovery that adds a touch of whimsy to the fieldof digital behavior analysis. So, what do you call a belt made of watches? A waist of time.
And just as amusing as that play on words, our research has provided a droll yet
insightful perspective on the influence of nomenclature on virtual adornments.

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchIn conclusion, our study effectively demonstrates the strong correlation between the firstname Tyler and the quest for "desktop background" aesthetics, providing a quirky insight
into human behavior in the digital age. As such, we confidently posit that no further
research in this area is needed. It's time to put a lid on it, like the punchline of a wellconstructed dad joke.

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-research