A Philosophy of Contour Mapping with the Computer: Chapter 1

Geologic interpretation is a critical requirement for mapping geological variables. Several acceptable though different maps could be drawn with a set of observations, so the map that best honors geologic concepts and interpretation is most desirable. We propose a philosophy of contouring with the computer that involves combining three factors: geologic interpretation, data, and the program or algorithm to be used. Each of these is important and all must be considered jointly to combine good procedures with appropriate software. In fact, correctly combining these three factors places the required interpretation into the map.