Magellan on Foursquare

Abstract: The paper explores the rise of digital cartography and subsequently location-based services, using Foursquare as case study. In fact, the rise of smartphones and wireless technologies have made Internet ubiquitous and online services accessible from anywhere. In this context, I address the changes in carthography and how it has been remediated on digital media. I then analyze some of the developments brought by the Web 2.0 in relation to location-based services, especially user-generated content, social networking websites, tagging and geotagging. Foursquare's content is created by its users, therefore enabling them to map the(ir) world. Foursquare remediates maps and travel guides, and it uses game dynamics to foster usage and sharing. The concept of online identity-building will be also addressed in relation to the sharing of one's location and how these factors enhance performative aspects. I conclude by investigating how the geotagging tendency on social networking platforms could be as well seen as a tool for enhancing user-generated surveillance.