Title: What Is A Map?
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Content: To fully understand a map we need to know how to decode its message and place it within its proper spatial, chronological, and cultural contexts. Maps, even modern maps, are historic. They represent a particular place at a particular point in time. This definition of a map (although, like the mirror image idea, is also problematic) suggests that maps can afford the viewer a great opportunity to gain insights into the nature of places. Why do relatively few scholars outside of geography use maps and why do maps intimidate people? Michael Peterson, a cartographer and professor of Geography at the University of Nebraska, Omaha, raises a critical issue that may also help to explain why maps are not utilized. He asserts that even highly educated people have trouble using maps and that more than half lack "basic" map competency. Peterson concludes that, "Most people are essentially map illiterate." ( See Michael P. Peterson's article, "Cartography and the Internet: Implications for Modern Cartography" ).