Forensic and Archaeological Analyses: Similarities and Differences

Introduction

Methodology in the analysis of human remains varies considerably in relation to context and problem orientation. Human remains are found in a myriad of contexts, with different levels of completeness and with varying degrees of preservation. All of these factors influence approach and the types of tests that can be utilized in analysis. The central problem to be examined also shapes methodology selection.

Definition

Forensic Analysis

In forensic applications, the particular issues presented by each case largely dictate what procedures should be employed. Forensic anthropologists bring awareness of the range of approaches possible to each issue. With this perspective, they then can select the appropriate techniques to solve the problems presented by each individual case.

Methodology selection in forensic work begins with recovery. Knowledge that remains are buried within a discrete location calls for archaeological techniques that remove the surrounding soil, leaving the...