Why Maps Matter in GIScience

Abstract

This paper is an elaboration of the theses proposed in ‘Cartographic presentation of forms and degradation of the natural environment: sozological map on a scale of 1∶50?000’ (), where a sozological map of Poland was presented. The said map contained comprehensive cartographic information on the forms of environmental protection and degradation, made to a scale of 1∶50?000. The thematic scope of the map has already been modified twice: in 1997 and in 2005, with the ensuing changes presented in corresponding manuals: Sozological Map on a Scale of 1∶50?000, in an Analogue and Digital Form (Chief National Geodesist, 1997) and Technical Guidelines GIS-4. Sozological Map of Poland, Scale of 1∶50?000, in an Analogue and Digital Form (2005). Many years’ worth of experience gained since the launch of this cartographic system points out to the need for broadening the presented content and improving the map’s scale. Thus, attempts have been made at rescaling the map to 1∶10?000. Increasing the degree of detail is particularly necessary for presenting areas of intensive human activity. In this paper, the authors propose technical and graphical solutions for the 1∶10?000 scale.