A Note on the Importance of Shape in Cartogram Communication

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Abstract
Communicating with value-by-area cartograms is at best a difficult task. However, the mapmaker can render a cartogram more meaningful in communication by retaining the basic shapes of the statistical units. This idea was examined and several tests were administered to subjects to gain information about points along state shapes that are used as cues in map reading. It was determined that map readers mentally generalize geographic shapes into ones that are similar to the over-all shape quality of the originals. In cartogram construction, the mapmaker should provide at least those points along state outlines that are proven to be the cues for shape identification. Anything less will detract from its ability to communicate effectively and, in fact, if this is the case alternate mapping methods should be employed.

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