When Maps Become the World

A tour de force. Philosophers of science have increasingly resorted to analogies with maps and mapping in thinking about the relation of scientific theories and models to the world(s) they are about. Winther interrogates this usage in multiple ways: a historical overview of map-making in the West, a philosophical examination of the assumptions and commitments of map language, and in-depth studies of mapping practices in sciences from cosmology to neuroscience to genetics. Wonderfully enhanced by reproductions of maps from the many domains in which they are used, this book gives welcome philosophical substance to a widely used and increasingly central concept in studies of science. --Helen Longino, Stanford University Winther writes from a wide-ranging, multidisciplinary perspective to show the power of the map, mapping, and 'map thinking' to organize and understand complex information. In very clear prose, citing a rich literature, he explores the possibilities of mapping, as well as its limitations and hazards. Professionals in geographic information systems who read this book will expand their conception of mapping and see their work as integral to the entire human enterprise; they will reflect more deeply on what they are doing, how they do it, and why; and be encouraged to look further into the philosophical underpinnings of mapping and GIS. --Jack Dangermond, founder and president, Esri An intriguing and often brilliant book, When Maps Become the World raises profound, even fundamental philosophical questions about 'map thinking.' The map is considered here as more than simply a scientific model or abstraction but as a kind of 'metaperspective' through which the world has been understood scientifically. This is an important book on how the map can be considered philosophically as a heuristic device that has enabled and constrained the development of scientific rationality. --Michael Heffernan, University of Nottingham When Maps Become the World deservedly takes its place alongside some of the great philosophical reflections on the unique alchemy of maps. This immensely rich and deeply learned book is about the power and limitations of maps and 'map thinking' as a way of understanding cartography as well as scientific theory and practice. Moving beyond the established critique of maps, Winther provides a dazzling route for new 'map thinking' in our bewildering digital age. A superb achievement. --Jerry Brotton, author of A History of the World in Twelve Maps [Winther] blends wide-ranging, multidisciplinary perspectives to demonstrate the power of maps, mapping, and the philosophical 'map thinking' that helps explain complex information and relationships through scientific theories and models. Winther's text evaluates the promises, consequences, and perils of map thinking. . . . This well-illustrated, heavily footnoted, heady, specialized book goes a step beyond Matthew Edney's Cartography: The Ideal and Its History (2019) and the landmark 'History of Cartography' series, recalling also his study of cartographic culture in Mapping an Empire. Winther's provocative, thoughtful treatise expands familiar concepts of cartography. GIS specialists could benefit from his reflections. . . . Highly recommended. -- Choice