In Lab 4 on housing affordability, we were able to explore different ways of classifying data including:
- Equal Interval
- Natural Breaks
- Manual Breaks
- Standard Deviation
With each classification, a different gradients shown, as seen in the map below:
Some are more accurate representations than others. For example, Natural breaks are much more of an accurate representation of housing prices than Equal Interval.
But the reason that such different and perhaps inaccurate classifications exist is because the application and purpose of certain maps vary.
Looking at Equal Interval, one may think Vancouver is quite affordable and very well-balanced in terms of shelter costs. But in reality, the difference in prices is vast and (see map on affordability below) Vancouver is a relatively expensive city to live in. Real estate would be an example of the benefits of Equal Interval.
It is very important to understand the ethics and biases behind any map that is made. Maps and its data are biased and a tool of power because of the way knowledge can be manipulated and expressed.
