Choropleth maps and data visualization instacritics

It’s pretty easy to tear down a data visualization. Between Tufte’s traveling show and any number of solid data visualization blogs, we’re creating a hive of instacritics that are currently laying down a path of destruction through unsuspecting visualizers.
I try to limit my critiques these days.  As easy as it is to tear down someone’s work it is much harder to offer a practical alternative.
Choropleth maps (the ones where you color in states/counties) are easy targets for the instacritic.  Population is never evenly distributed geographically, so these kinds of maps distort.
I’m in the process of developing a strategy guide for creating a bubble map alternative using Tableau. But, for the first time ever on this blog, there is a catch. If you want it, you’ll need to sign up for my email list. If you’re already on it, you can expect a link soon.