How Maps Work: Representation, Visualization, and Design

by Alan M. MacEachren

Now available in paperback for the first time, this classic work presents a cognitive-semiotic framework for understanding how maps work as powerful, abstract, and synthetic spatial representations. Explored are the ways in which the many representational choices inherent in mapping interact with information processing and knowledge construction, and how the resulting insights can be used to make informed symbolization and design decisions. A new preface to the paperback edition situates the book within the context of contemporary technologies. As the nature of maps continues to evolve, Alan MacEachren emphasizes the ongoing need to think systematically about the ways people interact with and use spatial information.

Genres: Maps, Cartography, Geography, Nonfiction, Design

513 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1995

About the author

Alan M. MacEachren is Professor Emeritus of Geography at Penn State. His career has focused on cartography, data visualization, visual analytics, spatial cognition, and geographic information retrieval, with applications in public health, crisis management, and environmental science. During 42 years in academia, he authored two books (How Maps Work: Representation, Visualization, and Design and some Truth with Maps: A Primer on Symbolization and Design), co-edited many scientific publications, and authored or co-authored well over 200 research papers. Recent awards include: The International Cartographic Association’s Carl Mannerfelt Gold Medal (2021), the University Consortium for Geographic Information Science Research Award (2022), and the Cartography and Geographic Information Society Distinguished Career Award (2022). MacEachren’s long career included travel to many parts of the world, offering chances to pursue a non-academic avocation – birding. Starting in 1991, his “life list” is 1,519 bird species. He has posted over 7000 eBird reports (from 22 countries), including 1629 eBird reports from sites in Pennsylvania in 2021.

Reviews

[Wei Luo · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fundamental to the modern cartography, though hard to read.