1. Select Scale of Analysis
Scenario: Analyzing Wealth/Income Data.
Key Concept
At a Global Scale, data is averaged out, hiding details.
Wealthy
Middle Income
Low Income
2. Don't Get Tricked! (Map Scale vs. Scale of Analysis)
These two terms sound the same but mean opposite things visually.
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Map Scale
Cartographic Ratio
- Definition: The relationship between distance on the map and distance in reality.
- Large Scale = Zoomed In (Small Area, Big Detail)
- Small Scale = Zoomed Out (World Map)
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Scale of Analysis
Data Aggregation
- Definition: The level at which data is grouped or presented.
- Global Scale = Data grouped by World Regions.
- Local Scale = Data grouped by Zip Code/City.
⚠️ The Ecological Fallacy
This error occurs when you assume that what is true at a Large Scale of Analysis (e.g., National) is true for every individual at a Local Scale.
"The US has a high average income, therefore this specific person in Detroit must be wealthy." FALSE.
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