COGNITIVE ASPECT IN CARTOGRAPHY: RATIONAL AND SENSUAL COGNITION

The article discusses the basic terms and concepts of human cognitive ability in terms of carto-graphic research method and use of cartographic products to gain new knowledge about the environ-ment. The definition of the main forms of cognition (rational and sensual) is given. The main forms of rational cognition are listed. Differences between rational and sensual cognition are formulated. The definitions of the basic operations of rational cognition are given. The role of each of the operations in the process of making and using maps is characterized. The importance of sensual cognition in cartog-raphy is noted. The influence of the peculiarities of sensual cognition on perception of the world and cartographic products are given. Conclusions about the increasing role of sensual cognition in the per-ception of maps, due to the development of geoinformation mapping and computer design are made.