The Problem With Map Projections and Why All Maps Are Wrong

Johnny Harris from Vox explains the problem with map projections (flattening a spherical globe to a two-dimensional surface) and why all maps are wrong, particularly the commonly used Mercator projection.

My struggle to make a flat map out of the plastic globe is indicative of a challenge mapmakers have faced for centuries: It is mathematically impossible to translate the surface of a sphere onto a plane without some form of distortion.

Glen Tickle
Glen Tickle

Amelia's dad. Steph's husband. Writer, comedian, gentleman. Good at juggling, bad at chess.