Visualising in Spite of All the Data

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Published: Jan 15, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54337/jovi.v1i1.8417

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Paul Heinicker
University of Applied Sciences Potsdam
https://orcid.org/0009-0001-7695-974X

Abstract

The paper discusses the the contemporary development of the practice and theory of visualisation culture. It looks at the prevailing ideas and narratives regarding data and its visual representation from a media cultural studies perspective. It analyses a dominant model of affirmative visualisation that shapes the cultural technique in its data-positivist and representation-centric stance, arguing that it often overlooks the evolving socio-technical landscape and fails to address critical questions about context, intention, and author responsibility. The paper proposes that the potential of data visualisation lies in its adaptability to changing conditions and suggests a need to reconsider prevailing models that prioritise efficiency legibility over self-reflection and context.

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[1]
Heinicker, P. 2026. Visualising in Spite of All the Data. Journal of Visualization and Interaction. 1, 1 (Jan. 2026). DOI:https://doi.org/10.54337/jovi.v1i1.8417.
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