22. Visualizing diversity: Data deficiencies and semiotic strategies

Abstract

This chapter explores the complicated dynamics that are inherent to the practice of data visualization involving issues of race and identity. We focus on data from the US Census and the profound questions that are raised as visual forms purport to represent groups. After reviewing historical context and related limitations and controversies, we present a project that explores a novel approach to visualizing US immigration patterns, an approach that relies on visual metaphors and algorithmic construction of visualization patterns based on massive sampling of Census microdata. The chapter suggests that the use of innovative expressive techniques to convey insights through poetic, and thus less literal, and limiting, forms is a way of grappling with underlying deficiencies in administrative population data.