Common Map Misconceptions
Maps are powerful tools, but they can also mislead us. Here are three major biases that shape how we see the world.
1. The "North is Up" Bias
There is no scientific reason for North to be at the top of a map. In space, there is no "up" or "down". Early Islamic maps often put South at the top, while early Christian maps put East at the top (towards Jerusalem).
Why it matters: Placing North at the top psychologically reinforces the idea that Northern Hemisphere countries are "superior" or "dominant" over the "down under" Southern countries.
2. The Size Bias
The Mercator projection, used by most digital maps, drastically inflates the size of objects away from the equator.
- Greenland appears the same size as Africa. (Reality: Africa is 14x larger)
- Europe looks larger than South America. (Reality: South America is nearly 2x larger)
- Antarctica looks like the biggest continent. (Reality: It's smaller than Russia)
3. The Centering Bias
Most World Maps sold in Europe and the Americas place the Atlantic Ocean or Europe in the center. Maps in Japan often place the Pacific in the center.
What we choose to put in the center defines what we consider the "main stage" of the world.
See the Truth for Yourself
ResizeEarth strips away the distortions of the Mercator projection. Drag any country to the equator to see its true size.
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