Forensic Cultures in Modern Europe

The edited volume explores the performance and role of scientific experts in modern European courts of law and police investigations, examining the impact of forensic evidence and expertise in different European countries. It highlights the entanglement of modern forensic science and technology with political ideology, gender norms, and changes in the law and legal systems.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This edited volume delves into the examination of the performance and significance of scientific experts in contemporary European courts of law and police investigations. It explores a range of cases from criminal, civil, and international law to analyze the impact of forensic evidence and expertise across different European countries. The contributors shed light on the intricate relationship between modern forensic science and technology, political ideology, gender norms, and legal systems. Through captivating case studies, they highlight how the ideologies of authoritarian and liberal regimes have shaped the practical implementation of forensic expertise. They also emphasize the influence of images of masculinity and femininity on the performance of experts and their evaluation of evidence, victims, and perpetrators. This book constitutes a valuable addition to our understanding of modern European forensic practices.

Introduction:
In recent years, the role of scientific experts has become increasingly prominent in modern European courts of law and police investigations. These experts are relied upon to provide expert testimony and analysis in a wide range of legal matters, including criminal cases, civil disputes, and international investigations. Their expertise and knowledge in fields such as forensics, biology, chemistry, and physics have become crucial in determining the outcome of legal cases and ensuring justice is served.

The Performance of Scientific Experts:
The performance of scientific experts in modern European courts of law and police investigations is a subject of significant interest. These experts are required to adhere to strict ethical guidelines and standards of practice to ensure the accuracy and reliability of their testimony. They must be impartial, independent, and objective in their assessments and must provide evidence-based conclusions that are supported by scientific principles and data.

The Role of Forensic Evidence:
Forensic evidence plays a vital role in modern European courts of law and police investigations. It includes a wide range of physical and biological evidence that can be used to support or refute a hypothesis or theory. Forensic experts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting this evidence to provide testimony that can help determine the guilt or innocence of a suspect or the validity of a claim.

The Impact of Forensic Expertise in Different European Countries:
The impact of forensic expertise in different European countries can vary significantly. Different legal systems, cultural norms, and political ideologies can influence the way forensic evidence is collected, analyzed, and interpreted. For example, some countries may prioritize the use of DNA evidence, while others may rely more heavily on eyewitness testimony. Additionally, the availability of advanced technology and equipment can also impact the effectiveness of forensic investigations.

The Intersection of Forensic Science and Technology:
Forensic science and technology are inextricably entangled with political ideology, gender norms, and changes in the law and legal systems. The development and application of forensic techniques are often influenced by societal attitudes towards crime, punishment, and justice. For example, the use of DNA evidence has been controversial in some countries, particularly those with strong cultural or religious beliefs about genetic inheritance.

The Influence of Images of Masculinity and Femininity:
Images of masculinity and femininity can also have an impact on the performance of scientific experts and their assessment of evidence, victims, and perpetrators. Gender stereotypes and expectations can influence how experts interpret evidence and how they interact with witnesses and suspects. For example, male experts may be perceived as more authoritative and trustworthy, while female experts may be viewed as less credible or capable.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this edited volume examines the performance and role of scientific experts in modern European courts of law and police investigations. It discusses cases from criminal, civil, and international law to parse the impact of forensic evidence and expertise in different European countries. The contributors show how modern forensic science and technology are inextricably entangled with political ideology, gender norms, and changes in the law and legal systems. They highlight how the ideology of authoritarian and liberal regimes has affected the practical enactment of forensic expertise and how images of masculinity and femininity have influenced the performance of experts and their assessment of evidence, victims, and perpetrators. This book is an important contribution to our knowledge of modern European forensic practices.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 145 x 223 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526172334