NicoleS-R01

The chapter on Graphical Excellence by Tufte explains how graphical maps are visual tools through which multiple sets of data or ideas can be conveyed to create new meaning or trains of thought. I particularly noted his quote on how the map’s graphics reveal data and invite the viewer to investigate the data rather than consider the designs execution or technique. It was also interesting to see the direct juxtaposition of the Chinese map and the Cosmographia by Petrus Apianus. The Chinese map appears to have been executed using brush and ink with great detail and minimal noise. The later map has some letterpress and decorative elements; making is seem more inviting and prompting investigation. In Edmond Halley’s 1686 map stroke variation in size and placement is used to portray the historic Trade Winds. The famous dot map of Dr. Snow helped to identify the source of the cholera outbreak in central London, connecting seemingly unrelated events back to its source. The importance of accurate and depth of data is repeated throughout the reading as well, if the data is lacking then the graphics will struggle as well. Charts can act as a means to create relationships between two seemingly unrelated topics such as the Playfair map, which compared wheat prices to mechanical labor. When designing graphs that move through space and time, create consistent graphics in order to maintain the focus on the data variations.

Overall the fact that the majority of these maps were all hand made in their time is astounding. The amount of accuracy created without modern technology reveals the persistence and patience of the creators. One has to wonder from what means they gathered their data and how these maps were shared throughout their land. Initially, I image the ultimate control of these maps being created had to rely on the financing and resources of the reigning leader. It’s not entirely surprising that it took so long for statistics to be added to the geographical maps since the financial gain of such a project must have seen fleeting. The foreign leaders main concern, I would image is mapping out their own territories and the territories of their enemies in order to keep track of the unknown to better prepare themselves. Also, the collection of such data for statistical maps must have been difficult with the expansiveness of the territories and the difficulty with retaining accurate information. As Tufte had beaten with a dead horse, inaccurate information will create uninformative maps which is essentially a waste of time and resources.