Uses of Maps

Reading Reflection
Your Name
Subject and Section
Professor’s Name
April 27, 2020
Sections 11.1 to 11.3
Maps have always been an integral part of the day-to-day lives of society. It allows anyone, not only to navigate, but also to generalize data, view information, and create systematic plans with the aid of a visual tool that provides a general perspective. Accordingly, the two types of maps, as discussed in this chapter were the (1) formal maps and (2) transitory map. On the one hand, formal maps are usually created based on “well-established cartographic conventions.” Some examples of these are maps used for navigation as well as those used by the military for their operations. On the other hand, transitory maps are mostly used to determine general patterns of other factors (i.e., poverty, health, climate, etc.) by outlaying them on top of their geographical locations.
Accordingly, it was shown in the subsequent chapters that the map crucial for different purposes, such as the economy, healthcare, and agriculture. This is because these pieces of information help guide both public and private institutions in deciding on almost every matter. However, this means that maps may be used as a useful tool to create miscommunication and deceive others. Personally, these types of misconceptions are prevalent in today’s social media, especially when cartographic data are presented in order to mislead everyone about the rates of infection in this pandemic.
Lastly, the discussion also provided some of the technical aspects that every map should have. Some of these elements are title, legend, scale, and indicator, among others, in order to orient its audience.
Two questions:
1 What are the most recent examples when a map is used to mislead people?
2 How can the audience make sure that the map that they are using (mainly transitory maps) are accurate?
Chapter 19
This chapter discusses how the GI system can be used for the benefit of humankind. Initially, the author discussed the existing wealth inequality that made the rich richer and the poor poorer. Subsequently, it was shown that through GI, it is possible to predict how wealth is distributed across the world. One example of this was through the use of a satellite image that monitors the distribution of electrical bulbs from the space. Another example was the use of a map in order to show wealth distribution and access based on the differing life expectancies of people in a specific population.
It was also stated in this chapter how GI could be used in order to make scientific studies even with a low budget. It is a well-known fact that some studies that are designed to uplift human lives mitigate environmental impacts or improve a state’s economy would take more resources when conducted. Nevertheless, GI made this possible by predicting possible trends and displaying them concerning cartographic features.
Lastly, the author has discussed how the GI system can be used in order to address these societal issues by creating a more “interdependent world.” He provided specific steps is devising a strategy against these inequalities through GI, such as (1) defining and describing the issue, (2) analyzing and modeli...