Originally published to wide acclaim, this lively, illustrated essay on the use and abuse of maps teaches critical evaluation and promotes skepticism about these manipulable models of reality. The author demonstrates that, despite their immense value, maps inherently lie. The updated second edition includes two new chapters, ten color plates, and a new foreword by renowned geographer H. J. de Blij. One chapter examines the influence of national interest and cultural values on mapping organizations, while the other explores multimedia, computer-based maps. To illustrate how maps distort, the author introduces basic principles of mapmaking and entertaining examples of misuse in various contexts, covering distortions from oversimplifications to misleading color usage. The book is described as an artful and humorous work, encouraging readers to appreciate the approximate and incomplete truths in maps. It serves as a useful guide for those who may take maps for granted, combating cartographic illiteracy and even helping readers find their way. The witty examination of how and why maps lie conveys important insights about the manipulation of statistics while highlighting the aesthetic appeal and enjoyment of maps. Readers will emerge better equipped to navigate the pitfalls of deceptive atlases, shoddy journalism, and unscrupulous advertisers, making this book a must-read for anyone who uses maps.
Mark S. Monmonier Orden de los libros (cronológico)
2 de febrero de 1943
Mark Monmonier crea narrativas convincentes que profundizan en las complejidades de la geografía y los sistemas de información, infundidas tanto de riguroso rigor académico como de un encantador sentido del humor. Sus escritos desafían la sabiduría convencional, alentando a los lectores a examinar críticamente cómo se presenta e interpreta la información. El enfoque único de Monmonier ilumina la intrincada naturaleza de la toponimia y los datos geográficos, revelando las capas de significado y el sesgo potencial dentro de representaciones aparentemente objetivas. Invita a los lectores a un viaje de descubrimiento intelectual, donde el paisaje familiar de mapas y nombres de lugares se convierte en una fuente de profunda perspicacia.
