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A Completely Accurate Map With No Distortion At All

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Scott presents a distorted map of Europe as a riddle, challenging readers to reconsider their perceptions and solve the puzzle.

Summary from Read Scott Alexander; separate from the original essay.

Does something seem off about this map? Maybe Amsterdam is a little too far inland? Maybe the coastline is a bit too squashed, or the sea a bit too narrow?

No. This map is fine. The problem is with you. Think of it as a riddle: what mistake are you making in reading this map?

Hints (after a fashion) here and here.

If you give up, the answer to the riddle is here.

Written by Scott Alexander. Support the writing →

Source snapshot: 2026-10-18. Likes unavailable · 92 comments; counts at capture, no local voting or comments.