Computing with many spaces: Generalizing projections for the digital geohumanities and GIScience

Area of Science:

• Geographic Information Science
• Digital Geohumanities
• Computational Geography

Background:

• Geographic computation typically relies on representing phenomena in a single, absolute coordinate system using projections.
• This Euclidean or spherical geometry approach may limit the analysis of complex spatial relationships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a new approach to geographic computation by pluralizing the spaces available for analysis.
• To introduce numerical, generalized projections as a more flexible alternative to traditional projections.
• To enhance the capabilities of Geographic Information Systems (GISystems) for diverse spatial representations.

Main Methods:

• Supplementing the technical architecture for projections and reframing their purpose.
• Modifying existing libraries like proj.4 with minimal disruption.
• Envisioning modifications to Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) technical specifications for coordinate systems.

Main Results:

• Generalized projections can be integrated into GISystems, enhancing their flexibility.
• The approach accommodates spatial multiplicity, fragmented spaces, and interruptions.
• This facilitates interpretative scholarship, computational engagement with relational space, and complex systems analysis.

Conclusions:

• Generalized projections offer a more inclusive framework for geographic computation, aligning with the nuanced spatialities of the digital geohumanities and critical geography.
• This approach broadens the understanding of geographic information in GIScience and supports the study of emergent complex systems.