The attempts at cartographic representation of the natural and human environment have a long history and perhaps coincide with the first steps of human civilization. The thematic map traditionally serves as a communication medium and simultaneously as a tool for analyzing and interpreting space.
In modern times, the extensive role of the digital map, supported by geographic information systems, is established as a methodological tool that assists in the processes of spatial decision-making, planning, and policy formulation at every geographic level and scale.
The objective of the thematic map is to convey the appropriate "spatial message" relevant to the specific requirements of a specialized (or non-specialized) reader without omissions or unnecessary informational "noise." For this purpose, the mere administrative capability provided by information technology tools is not sufficient, as it often leads to basic cartographic errors when theoretical documentation is absent from the cartographic practice.
The aim of the book is to reinforce and apply the cartographic rules and principles of graphic semiotics, to investigate the criteria for selecting cartographic symbolism in relation to the data to be represented, and to develop the skill in handling modern cartographic tools for designing and composing a readable, communicatively accurate, scientifically reliable, and aesthetically sufficient cartographic result.
