The title is a reference to the book The Limits to Growth (1972) and the Club of Rome think-tank who would create a "map of the problematique" detailing the "global problematique" - a set of likely challenges the world might face in the near future. In addition, the opening lyric, "fear and panic in the air" may be a reference to Mars, in that the red planet's two moons are named Phobos and Deimos, who were the Greek gods of Fear and Panic. Such a connection would fit in with numerous references to Mars in the album.
"Map of the Problematique" was used in trailers for Children of Men (2006) and The Tourist (2010), and the commercial for Prison Break. A short clip of the song was also used during the BBC's coverage of Rugby Sevens World Series. The song was also used as the "countdown" theme at the opening ceremonies of the 2012 London Olympics.