maps on social networks: a case study of the Viral Cartography project on Facebook and Instagram

Abstract

Viral maps have gained significant space on social networks today. They enhanced the rapid and ephemeral dissemination of information. Understanding this dynamic is essential for geographers, as it refers to new perspectives regarding graphic semiology and the production of cartographic content. This research perspective, still open, has great potential for theoretical, methodological and practical discussion in the short and medium terms. Thus, the objective of this article is (i) to evaluate the level of interaction of posts with maps and without maps on 4 Facebook and Instagram pages and to compare the results with the content posted by the Viral Cartography page; (ii) compare audience interaction with posts considering the two social media platforms; (iii) to evaluate the potential for social engagement of 5 maps that dealt with issues that were in high demand in the media. This work has a qualitative and quantitative character in which likes, reactions, shares and comments on posts are evaluated. We concluded with the analyzes undertaken that viral maps are efficient and expanding tools for the propagation of (dis) information. Although ephemeral, they have significant implications for the interpretation of content and the formation of opinions. Thus, this field of investigation becomes very relevant and necessary for contemporaneity..