Ideas Why world maps illustrate an artificial reality
Apr 11, 2025
Lou Skoda, a seasoned cartographer with 50 years of expertise, joins Jesse Gordon, manager of technical services for the Namgis First Nation. They discuss the fascinating subjectivity of maps, revealing how they reflect cultural narratives and biases. From the Gulf of Mexico controversy to garbage management systems, the conversation explores the evolution of cartography, blending art and science. Skoda's innovative population mapping techniques challenge traditional views, highlighting maps as both navigational tools and representations of reality.
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Gulf of America Controversy
- In 2005, Google Maps renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America in the U.S. following a presidential order.
- This change highlighted the subjectivity of maps and how they reflect human decisions, not just objective reality.
Maps as Narratives
- Maps are artificial representations of reality, offering a snapshot of a specific time and cultural perspective.
- Analyzing historical maps reveals cultural values and power dynamics.
Lying with Maps
- The book "How to Lie with Maps" by Mark Monmonier exposes how maps can be manipulated to present biased information.
- This manipulation can range from altering boundaries to omitting crucial details like hazardous waste sites.