⚠️ Critical Thinking Alert

Just because two things happen together doesn't mean one causes the other!

Choose an Example to Explore:

r = 0.85

Strong Positive Correlation

🍦 Ice Cream Sales vs. Drowning Deaths

This classic example shows a strong correlation between ice cream sales and drowning deaths. At first glance, you might think eating ice cream makes people drown!

The Reality: Both increase during summer months. Hot weather causes people to buy more ice cream AND go swimming more often (where drowning accidents can happen).

The Lesson: A third factor (temperature/season) is the real cause behind both variables.

🔍 Confounding Factors (Hidden Variables):

  • Summer weather and higher temperatures
  • School vacation periods
  • Increased outdoor activities
  • More people visiting beaches and pools

🎯 Key Takeaway

Always look for alternative explanations when you see correlation. Ask yourself: "What other factors could explain this relationship?" The most obvious explanation isn't always the correct one!