We typically use maps as a matter of course.
Smartphone map apps, world maps, textbook maps—
we rarely question their accuracy.
However, maps don't always reflect reality exactly as it is.
Rather, maps are **intentionally created "perspectives."**
■ Maps are always distorted
The Earth is a sphere, but maps are flat.
At this point, a perfectly accurate map does not exist.
For example, the widely used "Mercator projection."
On this map, areas appear larger the further north they are.
Therefore, Greenland appears to be about the same size as Africa,
but in reality, Africa is approximately 14 times larger.
In other words, the maps we see are
a **"different world" with inaccurate sizes.**
■ Why do we use distorted maps?
So why do we tolerate such distortions?
It's because maps are created with a "purpose."
For example—
・For navigation, "accuracy of angles" is important.
・For education, "comparability of areas" is important.
・For design, "readability" is prioritized.
Thus, the form of a map changes depending on what is prioritized.
In other words, a map is not
**reality itself, but a "tool for use."**
■ Maps shape our perception of the world
What's even more interesting is how maps influence our "perception of the world."
For example—
・North being at the top
・Europe being depicted in the center
・How borders are drawn
These are not "natural things" but merely
rules decided by humans.
If we were to look at a map with south at the top,
our "impression of the world" would likely change significantly.
■ Summary
Maps are very convenient and indispensable in our lives.
However, they are also created from someone's perspective.
Next time you look at a map, pause for a moment.
"What is this map trying to convey?"
Just by thinking that,
your perception of the world might change slightly.
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