>you've never used a map in a different way? Sure. But the USGS doesn't publish precise up to date topological maps of every square inch of the United States f

>you've never used a map in a different way? Sure. But the USGS doesn't publish precise up to date topological maps of every square inch of the United States for the purpose of guiding backpackers with compasses. They do it to divide up political boundaries, delimit resource rights, and guide commercial activity. This goes for just about any other large scale mapping effort (on earth).