Edward Tufte and The Visual Display of Quantitative Information – Data Displayed Properly

Edward Tufte wants to “change the way people see,” and he certainly did with this landmark book, which is said to be “pictures of numbers.” He wants data to speak for itself with as little ornamentation as possible. He has a lot to say (and show!) about how teachers can help their students display information.

Edward Tufte’s Home Page showcases the seven books he has written and self-published. These books have won more than 40 awards for content and design. He has taught courses in statistical evidence, information design, and interface design at Yale University, where he is Professor Emeritus.

The story behind the creation of this first book is fascinating: Tufte published his Visual Display in 1982 himself and financed the work by taking out a second mortgage on his home. He had 5,000 copies printed up, rented a post office box, and placed an ad in Scientific American. He and his wife went away for a few days. “The mailbox filled up just like that,” he says. “We came back Saturday morning, and it was stuffed.” The money, and accolades, kept rolling in.

Some things said about Mr. Tufte and The Visual Display of Quantitative Information:

“A visual Strunk and White.” Boston Globe

“A classic, as beautiful physically as it is intellectually.” Optical Engineering

“The Leonardo da Vinci of data.” The New York Times

“The world’s leading analyst of graphic information.” Martin Kemp, Nature

For a real visual treat, take a look at Edward Tufte’s work. Visit his website or use the Google Image search engine to look at some of his graphics.

To receive all new posts – subscribe via email or RSS Web Feed.

No related posts.