Map from 1889 of Southwark, parts of Lambeth, Camberwell and Greenwich in London, by Charles Booth showing areas of poverty
Credit: Descriptive map of London poverty - Charles Booth. From the British Library archive

The Lie of the Land: Who Controls the Map?

Ed Parsons and Ollie Ballinger on how maps can expose injustice, challenged authority, and reshaped what we see.

Friday 14 November, 19.00

About The Lie of the Land: Who Controls the Map?

Map from 1889 of Southwark, parts of Lambeth, Camberwell and Greenwich in London, by Charles Booth showing areas of poverty
Credit: Descriptive map of London poverty - Charles Booth. From the British Library archive

Technologist Ed Parsons and Dr Ollie Ballinger joins this panel conversation to explore how maps and cartography is being used to reveal what those in power would rather keep hidden. From exposing environmental injustice and geopolitical cover-ups to challenging propaganda and reclaiming erased histories, this conversation uncovers the radical potential of mapping. Together, they examine how cartographic tools, are being used to hold truth to power, uncover hidden inequalities, and challenge dominant narratives.

The full lineup of the panel will be announced soon.

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Venue and bar opening times

This is an in-person only event in the British Library Knowledge Centre. 

The Knowledge Centre and bar open from 18.00. 

Please arrive no later than 15 minutes before the start time of this event.  If you have specific access requirements please email customer@bl.uk

Concessions

There are a range of concessions available. These include discounts for British Library Members, Young Persons (16–25s), and visitors on Universal/Pension Credit and free entry for carers.

Dates and times