Arthur Robinson

Definition

Arthur Robinson was an influential cartographer and geographer, renowned for his contributions to the field of cartographic design and education. He is best known for developing the Robinson Projection, which aimed to create a more visually appealing and balanced representation of the world on a flat map while minimizing distortion. His work has significantly impacted how maps are designed and understood in both academic and practical contexts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Arthur Robinson's work in cartography emphasized the importance of aesthetics in map design, influencing how maps are visually perceived and understood.
2. The Robinson Projection is not conformal or equal-area but is designed to present a more 'natural' view of the world, which appeals to the public's understanding of geography.
3. Robinson served as a professor at several institutions and contributed to various cartographic textbooks, shaping educational approaches in the field.
4. His designs often focus on making geographical information more accessible, especially for educational purposes, ensuring that maps serve as effective tools for learning.
5. Arthur Robinson's influence extends beyond his projection; he was a pioneer in promoting advancements in cartographic techniques and technologies during the 20th century.

Review Questions

• How did Arthur Robinson's work influence the aesthetic aspects of map design?
  • Arthur Robinson emphasized aesthetics in his work, particularly through the development of the Robinson Projection. This projection balanced size and shape distortions to create a visually appealing representation of the world. His focus on making maps not only informative but also attractive significantly changed how cartographers approached map design, leading to an increased appreciation for the visual elements involved in conveying geographic information.
• Discuss the implications of using the Robinson Projection compared to traditional map projections.
  • The Robinson Projection offers a different perspective than traditional projections like Mercator or Peters by prioritizing visual appeal and balance over strict mathematical accuracy. While it does not preserve area or shape perfectly, its design provides a more natural view of continents and oceans. This makes it particularly useful for educational purposes, as it allows viewers to better comprehend global geography without being misled by extreme distortions often found in other projections.
• Evaluate how Arthur Robinson's contributions to cartography might influence modern mapping technologies and practices.
  • Arthur Robinson's contributions have laid the groundwork for modern mapping technologies by highlighting the significance of design principles in creating effective maps. As technology evolves, incorporating aesthetic considerations alongside data accuracy remains crucial in various applications such as GIS and web mapping. His ideas encourage contemporary cartographers to innovate by combining artistic design with technological advances, ensuring that maps remain engaging and informative in an increasingly digital world.

Related terms

Robinson Projection: A map projection created by Arthur Robinson that attempts to balance size and shape distortion, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing representation of the Earth.

Cartography: The art and science of making maps, which includes the study of map design, production, and interpretation.

Map Design Principles: Guidelines that cartographers follow to effectively communicate spatial information through visual elements such as symbols, colors, and layouts.