Changing Philosophical-Technical Aspects of Thematic Cartography

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Abstract
Two major classes of changes which have occurred in thematic cartography during the past 15 years are outlined in this paper. Also covered are how these changes are tending to influence the long-term philosophies of thematic cartographers. The two classes are: an increased attention to and identification of the field of thematic cartography, and an increase in the capabilities within the technical aspects of thematic cartography, especially automation. It is concluded here that these changes are inducing at least three major philosophical shifts. First, thematic cartographers now tend to view their objective as one of graphic communication rather than one of making graphic displays. Secondly, they are being forced to expand their conception of what constitutes a map, to accept new products, to tighten definitions, and to allow more variables in their methodologies. Finally, thematic cartographers are beginning to view the field of cartography as a science, one that is rather independent of both the fields...

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