Connection through Separation

As explored in this week’s lecture, cartography is used to, “Inform and shape how we act in and conceptualise space and place” (Kuttainen, 2016). Traditionally, the geography of space as shown through mapping is based on elements such as distance and size. Conversely, online mapping requires a more open-minded and theoretical approach. Tumblr has an existing conceptual map based on communication. The virtual geographical area of Tumblr is immeasurable yet can be mapped in a categorical way.

When comparing traditional to cyber maps it is important to consider, “Instead of distance it is relations that become increasingly important for understanding network structures” (Jiang, B. Ormeling, F. 1999, pg. 4) as explained in the analysis ‘Mapping Cyberspace’. Because the online environment is not a physical domain, it is defined by communication and relationships between people. On Tumblr, the function of personalisation allows the user to develop their blog however they want based on their interests. By promoting their specific interest they attract an audience with the same interest and are able to discuss it. This creates a compartmentalised online society.

                                Connection through separation. 

An effective way to explain this categorical way of thinking is to suggest that, “Every map is a purposeful selection from everything that is known, bent to the mapmaker's ends” (Woods, D. Kaiser, W. Abramms, B. 2006). When observing Tumblr as a collection of many different types of blogs, a sense of acceptance and freedom of expression is fortified. Which in turn recognises Tumblr as an interest-based network with an all-inclusive, universal and ethnically diverse community.  

References: 

Kuttainen, V. (2016) BA1002: Networks, narratives and the making of place, lecture 3: Maps. [Power point slides] Retrieved from http://learnjcu.edu.au

Woods, D. Kaiser, W. Abramms, B. (2006) Seeing Through Maps: Many Ways to see the world. Retrieved from http://learnjcu.edu.au

Jiang, B. Ormeling, F. (1999) Mapping Cyberspace. Retrieved from https://www.bartlett.ucl.ac.uk/casa/pdf/paper11.pdf 

NA. (2016) Power Formula. Retrieved from http://www.powerformula.net/7547/infographic-are-you-taking-advantage-of-the-top-rated-linkedin-features/