Mapping in Epistemological Translation, Revising the Critique of GIS (Geographical Information Systems) as an Instrument of Cultural Assimilation

Abstract

This paper examines some of the features that have made maps into an essential and traditional tool used by all those involved in the management of natural resources. A main competency of natural resource managers and geographers is map making, along with map reading and map usage, as it allows a vision to be constructed, aiding the understanding of bio-cultural ocean, riverine and landscapes and helping to put them into perspective. I argue that the prominence of mapping in natural resource management comes from a topokinetic quality of knowledge generation and a visual character of knowledge reproduction. I also argue that mapping is a pedagogical device not exclusive to western ontological tradition, and that these features have made mapping a favorite episte-mological translation tool.