Bioarchaeology, Human Osteology, and Forensic Anthropology: Definitions and Developments

Introduction and Definition

The analysis and interpretation of human skeletal remains focuses largely on what can be learned from these remnants, as well as the individuals and populations they represent. The terms bioarchaeology, human osteology, and human skeletal biology all refer to scholarly inquiry in this area, but each conveys a distinct emphasis. Osteology represents the most traditional term used, with its accent on comparative morphology. Skeletal biology also refers to comparative morphological study but recognizes the dynamic nature of skeletal growth and maintenance, as well as biomechanical and environmental factors that shape bone morphology. Bioarchaeology includes all of the above, but focuses on remains recovered from archaeological contexts with special consideration to the associations of biological and cultural factors.

Historical Background

The academic roots of this discipline extend back primarily to Europe and Asia with an interest in the evidence for human...