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Re: Blake Gumprecht's posting:
 
> Anyone who believes Geographic Information Systems will replace
> maps is as naive as the folks who think computers will replace
> books. (etc.)
 
     "It's deja-vu all over again."  What ever happened to all of
those portable microfiche readers we were all going to be carrying
around?  Perhaps Apple will incorporate them into the "Newton."
 
     New technology often does things more quickly and efficiently;
GIS applications in urban management and environmental studies are
excellent examples.  However, while markets and specialized niches
for new technologies develop, older ones will continue and can even
flourish.  Paper and ink are still more portable and affordable than
computers; they require no electricity nor technical training, can
produce sublime art and subtle calculations, won't cause a flight
control system to malfunction, and are unaffected by magnetic fields.
 
     In a thoughtful environment where perspective is valued, comments
such as Blake's are enough to deal with the vaunted "death of maps."
What I have had to confront for nearly three years is the use of this
fabrication to rationalize disposing of the paper maps entirely.
 
     Ironically, the exciting rush to develop outstanding GIS and
electronic mapping education here is juxtaposed with a relentless,
documented growth in use of the "obselete" paper format, in part to
support it.  I find myself both justifying electronic-map-related
purchases to Luddites and defending our paper collection from the
rashness of "GIS Red Guards."
 
     I could go on, but shall opt for discretion.  Suffice it for me to
post my warning: beware of this particular "big lie" at your location.
 
   David Sauer  ([log in to unmask])
   Stone Science Library, College of Liberal Arts, Boston University