Why North is Considered 'Up' in Our Maps and Minds
There is a fundamental question that has puzzled geographers, cartographers, and casual map readers for ages: How did north become the standard orientation for maps? This article explores the fascinating journey of why north is always perceived as 'up' and delves into the reasons behind this universal convention.
The Natural Influence of Magnets and Northern Hemisphere Domination
The answer to why north is considered 'up' on maps is not a mystery. Two key factors have contributed to this convention: magnets and the dominance of the Northern Hemisphere.
The compass, one of the earliest scientific tools for determining direction, relies on magnets. Magnets naturally align themselves with the Earth’s magnetic field, which points towards the north pole. This made the northern direction seem particularly significant and thus it became the 'up' direction on maps. The dominance of the Northern Hemisphere has further cemented this convention, as many early maps placed the Northern Hemisphere at the top, reflecting the cultural and economic power of countries like Rome, Venice, and later, European nations.
A Historical Perspective
Initially, the orientation of maps varied across different cultures and time periods. Early maps in the Middle Ages often showed Jerusalem or the east at the top, reflecting the religious and cultural significance of the region. However, during the Age of Discovery, European powers began to dominate global explorations and navigation. To assert their dominance, they placed themselves at the top of maps, reinforcing the northward orientation.
This shift in map orientation had significant cultural implications. In countries like Australia and New Zealand, the 'down under' perspective has sometimes created a sense of inferiority. For instance, during the Vietnam War, the Domino theory, which suggested that defeating communism in Vietnam would prevent its spread to other nations, relied heavily on the northward orientation. This theory played a crucial role in shaping Cold War rhetoric and strategy.
The Rebellious Map: South is Up
While the conventional northward orientation has remained dominant, some researchers and artists have challenged this notion. Noel Ellis, for example, created a 'South is Up' map, flipping the world on its head and forcing us to reconsider our perceptions. This map not only turns the world upside down but also challenges our ingrained perceptions of direction and orientation.
Ellis's work is emblematic of a broader movement that seeks to reconsider conventional standards and explore alternative perspectives. The South is Up map is particularly significant for countries in the Southern Hemisphere, such as Australia and New Zealand, as it offers a fresh and potentially liberating view of the world.
Modern Cartographic Standards and Universal Acceptance
Modern cartographic standards have largely originated from Europe, where the focus of exploration and cartography was the Mediterranean world. The Romans, for instance, placed the north side of the Mediterranean at the top because Rome was on the northern side. This tradition was followed by later Europeans, who were also situated on the northern side of the Mediterranean. This orientation became deeply ingrained and spread worldwide as European nations expanded their global influence.
One cannot overlook the role of geography in the northward orientation. On a globe, the top is north, reflecting the natural positioning of the Earth. It simply wouldn't make sense for any other direction to be 'up.' This universal acceptance and natural alignment have secured the northward orientation in modern cartography.
Conclusion
The northward orientation on maps has roots in both practical and cultural factors. From the influence of magnets to the dominance of the Northern Hemisphere, a northward orientation has become the standard. However, the work of individuals like Noel Ellis challenges this convention and invites us to explore alternative perspectives. Understanding these nuances can provide a deeper appreciation of the complex interplay between geography, culture, and human perception.
By questioning our assumptions and exploring different orientations, we can gain new insights into our world and our place within it. The 'South is Up' map is not just a whimsical exercise but a thought-provoking exploration of our ingrained beliefs and the evolution of our understanding of the world.