Emocje zapisane na mapach

Abstract

The article addresses a number of cognitive issues: Do maps serve only as neutral windows that document the world cartographically? How often do maps provide somethingmore, for instance an axiological perspective or a certain emotional filter? In the article the overview of selected thematic maps from Atlas of Poland’s political geography is preceded by a passage dedicated to human emotionality. Later, once the basic information about cartography (cartographic mapping, generalization, etc.) has been outlined, the article characterizes several maps and the methods of cartographic presentation and formulates the essential message of each map. Finally, the most common techniques of map emotionalization are enumerated. The standard graphic-verbal representation of a map shows in a way which is to be objective, conventional, simplifying and generalizing the approximate truth (probability) about space. Emotions present on the map merely imply intentions, because maps, which usually speak objectively about a specific spatial history, retain some cognitive-affective charge. A lesson on cartography says, among other things, that objectivism is sometimes a fertile soil for emotions.