Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
7. Why can't GI or a map show everything in any chosen area without
distortion?
8. What role do conventions play in the creation of GI and maps?
9. Can GI or a map be understood just by itself?
10. What are the differences between GI and maps?
11. What makes maps so powerful?
Answers
1. What distinguishes a
thing
from an
event
?
A
thing
is a geographic representation that is static and undynamic; an
event
is a process or part of a process characterized by a change in how it is being
described and accounted for. This difference is significant for cartographic
representation and cartographic communication. Things can be easily por-
trayed with cartographic symbols on paper or other media; events can be
only portrayed as a series of “snapshots” or through animations.
2. What is the geographic significance of the difference between a
thing
and an
event
?
The difference between a
thing
and an
event
is significant geographically
and also for cartographic representation and cartographic communication.
The geographic representation of things emphasizes consistent characteris-
tics; events emphasize changes or processes.
3. How are things represented in cartography?
Things can be easily portrayed with cartographic symbols on paper or other
media; events can be only portrayed as a series of “snapshots” or through
animations.
4. What influences the quality of GI or a map?
The choices made that affect the reliability and integrity of the GI or map.
5. Is every map reliable enough for every use?
No, maps are abstractions that focus on a selection of things and events
from the endless complexity of the world.
6. How do representation and communication relate to each other?
Representation is the basis for communication. It is impossible to have a
cartographic representation of what is missing from a geographic represen-
tation.
7. Why can't GI or a map show everything in any chosen area without
distortion?
Maps must abstract, which leads to distortions. Some distortions are
explicit, but many can be implicit.
8. What role do conventions play in the creation of GI and maps?
Conventions
are simply unstated rules and assumptions that people rely on
to help with the geographic representation and cartographic representation
of the world.
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