5.3 Conclusion

In making maps, we tell many lies. Small lies include all sorts of standard cartographic strategies, including projection, symbolization, standardization, classification, aggregation, and zonation. Then there are the other kinds of lies—gerrymandering, propaganda maps, maps that push a particular political perspective, and misleading advertising maps. As a critical map reader and map maker, it is imperative that you be able to identify and understand the ways that maps lie.

Resources

For more information about lying with maps:

• Mark Monmonier. 1996. How to Lie with Maps (University of Chicago Press)
• Prisoners of the Census:

For more perspectives on gerrymandering:

• Michael Hiltzik, “A gerrymandering attempt that went hilariously awry,” Los Angeles Times (Aug. 31, 2015).
• Christopher Ingraham, “America’s most gerrymandered congressional districts,” Washington Post (May 15, 2014).
• John Sides & Eric McGhee, “Gerrymandering Isn’t Evil: Why independent redistricting won’t save us from political gridlock,” Politico (June 30, 2015).
• Christopher Ingraham, “How to steal an election: a visual guide,” Washington Post (March 1, 2015).