The Cartographic Projections of Flat Earth Believers: An Analysis

Believers in the flat Earth theory often cite various cartographic projections as part of their visual evidence. However, the flat Earth maps they use to support their claims are not based on any scientifically recognized projection. Let's explore the cartographic projections they commonly use and why they might prefer them.

Introduction to Flat Earth Projections

Flat Earthers often dismiss the world as we know it, preferring alternative models of the Earth. They argue that distortions and asymmetries in global maps are evidence that the Earth is not a sphere. Instead, they use various imaginative and non-traditional maps that they believe better suit their theory. One such projection they champion is called 'Why Do You Care,' which is not a recognized map projection but is one they claim supports their stance.

Why Do You Care Projection

The 'Why Do You Care' projection is a theoretical map projection used by flat Earth believers. It characterizes the map as a flat, though irregular, surface, often with a circular or ring-shaped layout. This projection is symbolic rather than practical, as it lacks any real cartographic basis. It is used primarily for dramatic effect and to challenge conventional geospatial understandings.

Azimuthal Equidistant Projection

One of the most visually distinct projections favored by flat Earth adherents is the Azimuthal Equidistant Projection. This map projection is known for its unique shape of Australia and is highlighted by its ability to represent directions and distances accurately from the projection center. However, flat Earthers often modify it to fit their preferred flat Earth model, sometimes even to cite the Gleason map, which is a variant of this projection.

The Azimuthal Equidistant Projection is particularly popular among flat Earthers because it shows a nearly circular globe, which fits their model of a flat Earth. They often remove the meridians and add the “Antarctic Wall” to enhance the perspective of a flat surface, leading to some innovative yet non-standard map representations.

Peirce Quincuncial Projection

An additional projection used by flat Earthers is the Peirce Quincuncial Projection, which is an adaptation made to preserve the shapes of the continents better. However, this projection is still not aligned with flat Earth theory and involves complex transformations from a sphere to a flat surface. Flat Earthers remove certain elements of this projection to simplify and align it with their model, sometimes adding an “Antarctic Wall” to represent the poles.

UN Map Projection: The False Anthropological Clue

Flat Earthers often cite the map used by the United Nations as evidence of a secret truth. They argue that the UN uses a projection that shows the true shape of the Earth, which supports their flat Earth theory. This map is known as the Azimuthal Equidistant or Equidistant Conic projection, used in its various forms.

The UN's map, however, serves more practical purposes such as showing the relative distances and directions from a central point. It is not intended to be a flat Earth projection. While it might look appealing to those who see it as a potential aligner with their beliefs, it remains far from their claimed utility in supporting a flat Earth model.

Flat Earth Arguments and Projections

Flat Earthers provide several arguments based on the modified cartographic projections they use:

Ice Wall Cradle: They believe the Earth is cradled by a high ice wall that keeps the oceans in place. Flat Ice Plain: The flat Earth is believed to be part of a larger flat ice plain. South Pole Ring: They argue the South Pole is a ring of ice, which contradicts the globe model's feasibility of crossing the South Pole. Firmament Dome: They propose a firmament dome just overhead, containing the sun, moon, and stars.

While these arguments might seem compelling from a flat Earth perspective, they lack scientific validation and are often based on misconceptions about the Earth's structure and geospatial reality.

Conclusion

Flat Earthers rely on various cartographic projections to support their beliefs, often modifying or adapting these projections to fit their flat Earth model. While these projections are imaginative and serve as interesting visual aids, they lack the scientific basis necessary for accurate geographical representation. Understanding these projections helps in discerning the reasoning behind flat Earth beliefs and highlights the importance of scientific methods in geospatial analysis.