The Use of the Landscape Metaphor in Understanding Population Data

In this paper we consider how viewing population distribution as a landscape can aid our understanding of urban morphology and process. Such surfaces are characterised by a highly positively skewed distribution and usually appear ‘spikey’ when viewed obliquely. Two methods are suggested to overcome this problem, namely local and focal transformations. An alternative measure of population density, that of linear density, is suggested as a way of normalising the data. Quadratic smoothing is suggested as a method of focal transformation that allows surface properties to be quantified and generalised. With the Greater London area as an example, population surfaces are visualised in a variety of ways including animation. Properties of the surface such as slope and curvature are calculated and visualised. These help to describe the morphology of the London area population with respect to its evolution over time, planning regulation, and transport links. More sophisticated properties of the surface including morphometric features and inverted basins are identified and related to urban neighbourhoods.