This paper proposes a method for quantitative evaluation of perception deviations due to generalization in choropleth maps. The method proposed is based on comparison of class values assigned to different aggregation units chosen for representing the same dataset. It is illustrated by the results of application of the method to population density maps of Lithuania. Three spatial aggregation levels were chosen for comparison: the 1 × 1 km statistical grid, elderships (NUTS3), and municipalities (NUTS2). Differences in density class values between the reference grid map and the other two maps were calculated. It is demonstrated that a perceptual fallacy on the municipality level population map of Lithuania leads to a misinterpretation of data that makes such maps frankly useless. The eldership level map is, moreover, also largely misleading, especially in sparsely populated areas. The method proposed is easy to use and transferable to any other field where spatially aggregated data are mapped. It can be used for visual analysis of the degree to which a generalized choropleth map is liable to mislead the user in particular areas.

Functioning of maps in different areas of human activity provides the right context for the formation of cartographic functional styles. The community that participates in this map-related activity gains knowledge. When developing a system of cartographic functional styles, it is important to consider how users value cartographic functional styles. The purpose of the research is to evaluate cartographic functional styles based on the results of the target group survey. In order to achieve the goals of the research, the framework of the system of cartographic functional styles has been prepared, consisting of the main components that determine the cartographic functional style. Maps illustrating characteristic features of different styles are included. A questionnaire for the survey was prepared. Stylistic analysis of modern maps, analysis of information sources was carried out during the research. The maps are produced using data from different data sources and GIS software. 4 maps on the current topic of wind energy are the results of this activity. 104 respondents from different fields of activity took part in the survey. The results of the survey show that as many as 85 percents of the respondents basically agree with the statement that maps in general are characterized by a variety of cartographic functional styles. The respondents give high priority to the target audience for which the map is intended in the system of functional styles. Based on the results of the survey, the framework of the system of cartographic functional styles has been specified.

Stylistic neutrality is the basis for the stylistic evaluation of maps. Furthermore, the stylistic neutrality of a map as a cartographic text may be related to objectivity. However, what constitutes stylistic neutrality is not clearly stated in the field of cartography. The problem is complicated by the fact that the stylistically neutral image is a hypothetical image. The aim of this research is to investigate stylistic neutrality by exploring the peculiarities of cartographic language functioning in different fields of social activity. The research combines descriptive analysis, stylistic analysis, cartographic and interpretative methods. Firstly, the research reveals the concept of cartographic stylistic neutrality, in line with the cartographic linguistic paradigm. Secondly, an analysis of the characteristics of cartographic language in different fields of social activity from the point of view of stylistic neutrality is carried out. Thirdly, an example is developed to illustrate stylistic cartographic neutrality. Stylistic neutrality is characterised by the stylistic features of cartographic language: clarity, accuracy, conciseness, calmness, abstractness, temperance, neutrality and moderateness. The style of cartographic production for inventory and research activities is closest to stylistic neutrality, while the style of reflective activity is the most expressive and acts as a source of concreteness for stylistic neutrality.