ENV-357 Applied Cartography
Maps select and use symbols and representations
that argue for a particular interpretation of the
world. These visual arguments reflect assumptions
about how to categorize and prioritize groups of
people and spaces. This course opens by examining
possible symbols and elements for use in maps
with an emphasis on how these symbols correlate
to such assumptions about what is true and
valuable. Students will spend time evaluating the
representation of information on both historical
and contemporary maps. The class will also
examine the recent evolution of cartographic
technology with a focus on how digital
technologies have affected our ability to
perceive the prejudices embedded in symbol
selection.