Maps are true-to-scale representations of geographical features. Maps are also tools for depicting geopolitical conditions: they reflect political borders and strategic interests. Yet they rarely constitute objective graphical representations. Instead, they often reinforce simplified or distorted perceptions in the minds of viewers. Services like Google Maps play a significant role in this regard.

With over 1 billion regular users, Google Maps is arguably the most important tool when it comes to using maps. This makes it all the more remarkable that the service often contains ambiguous information, for example regarding border lines or the names of regions.

Vagrant Diplomacy aims to shed light on the ambivalence of the representations provided by Google Maps.

Imprint

The maps discussed were viewed in Google Maps via a VPN to obtain the various perspectives. Since we are located in Germany, it cannot be ensured that this geographical perspective is also reflected in the content. Therefore, the maps were also viewed in Google Maps from Germany to ensure the most neutral perspective possible. Germany is one of many countries displayed in Google Maps with clearly defined (undisputed) national borders. This is indicated by a red border when you zoom out and click on the name of the respective country. Vagrant Diplomacy is not intended as a political statement. We have attempted to research as carefully as possible and to view all facts objectively. Should errors nevertheless arise, please feel free to notify us.

The project has no commercial intentions. We used dither-dither by krisenstab for the images and graphics.

Project by knopfauge (studio for interaction and graphic design)

Knopfauge
Winkler & Knigge GbR
Braunschweig
Germany

hallo@knopfauge.studio

The copyrights to the texts, tables, graphics, and logos used on this website are held by the service provider. The content of this website may not be used, reproduced, modified, or distributed beyond the scope of use permitted by copyright law without the written consent of the service provider. Disclaimer: The content of this website has been prepared to the best of our knowledge and with the utmost care. The recommendations, statements, information, and notes contained herein are non-binding and do not constitute legal or tax advice. The service provider shall not be liable for any damages resulting from the observance, use, or application of the recommendations, statements, information, and notes.