Besprechungen: Atlas zur Raumentwicklung

Summary

This review discusses two atlases. First, it evaluates the 'Atlas zur Raumentwicklung' (Atlas for Spatial Development), published by the Federal Research Institute for Regional Studies and Planning, issued in thematic installments (e.g., labor, population) with a problem-oriented spatial planning perspective. The reviewer notes that although it continues the earlier 'The Federal Republic of Germany in Maps,' the new atlas emphasizes analysis, prognosis, and planning interpretation rather than mere spatial distribution. Criticisms include cartographic methods, such as relative representation hindering comparability, and the treatment of maps as mere images rather than research tools, highlighting the importance of explanatory texts and questioning potential manipulation to support policy views. Second, it briefly mentions the 'Atlas van Nederland' (Atlas of the Netherlands), a national atlas compiled since 1963, with its 13th installment released by late 1977. The review overall focuses on the atlas's role in spatial planning, cartographic technical issues, and objectivity in information presentation.