Forensic Taphonomy: The Postmortem Fate of Human Remains, Second Edition

In the past 20 years, taphonomy has grown significantly in its importance and applications, with over 50 chapters contributed by top scientists. It is a must-have resource for pathologists, death investigators, and forensic anthropologists.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 704 pages
\n Publication date: 01 January 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Inc
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Since the introduction of taphonomy by Haglund and Sorg to the forensic community over two decades ago, it has emerged as a dynamic and multidisciplinary approach to understanding postmortem change. In the past two decades, taphonomy has experienced a remarkable growth in its significance and applications. This Second Edition, reflecting two decades of forensic taphonomy research and application, encompasses a comprehensive update on various topics, including DNA implications, chemical variability in decomposition, microenvironments, and more. Comprising over 50 chapters authored by esteemed experts in the field, this book serves as an indispensable resource for pathologists, death investigators, and forensic anthropologists.

The field of taphonomy has undergone significant developments since its inception. Initially, it was primarily focused on the study of animal remains, but it has since expanded to encompass the examination of human remains as well. This expansion has been driven by the increasing importance of forensic science in criminal investigations and the need for more accurate and detailed analysis of evidence.

One of the key aspects of taphonomy is the study of postmortem change. This involves examining the physical and chemical processes that occur after death, such as decay, putrefaction, and fragmentation. By understanding these processes, forensic scientists can gain insights into the timing of death, the cause of death, and the identity of the deceased.

Taphonomy also plays a crucial role in the identification of human remains. By analyzing the physical characteristics of the remains, such as the age, sex, and race of the individual, forensic scientists can use taphonomic techniques to determine the likely origin and cause of death. This information can be invaluable in cases where the remains are unidentified or have been subjected to extreme trauma or destruction.

In addition to its forensic applications, taphonomy has also been used in other fields, such as archaeology and paleontology. By studying the burial practices and environmental conditions of ancient societies, archaeologists can gain insights into the social and cultural practices of past civilizations. Similarly, paleontologists can use taphonomic techniques to study the fossilization process and determine the age and origin of fossilized remains.

One of the challenges facing taphonomy is the increasing complexity of modern forensic investigations. With the advent of new technologies and techniques, such as DNA analysis and digital imaging, forensic scientists are faced with increasingly complex evidence and data. This requires a multidisciplinary approach, where experts from different fields work together to analyze and interpret evidence.

Another challenge is the ethical considerations associated with the use of taphonomic techniques. For example, the analysis of human remains can raise sensitive ethical issues, such as the right to privacy and the treatment of the deceased. Forensic scientists must carefully consider these issues and ensure that their research is conducted in a respectful and ethical manner.

Despite these challenges, taphonomy remains an important field of study for forensic scientists and other researchers. By continuing to advance our understanding of postmortem change and other taphonomic processes, we can improve our ability to identify and investigate crimes, preserve cultural heritage, and understand the natural history of the world.

In conclusion, taphonomy has emerged as a dynamic and multidisciplinary approach to understanding postmortem change. Over the past two decades, it has grown significantly in its importance and applications, and this Second Edition reflects the latest research and developments in the field. With its comprehensive coverage of topics, including DNA implications, chemical variability in decomposition, microenvironments, and more, this book serves as an indispensable resource for pathologists, death investigators, and forensic anthropologists. As the field continues to evolve, taphonomy will play an increasingly important role in advancing our understanding of human remains and other scientific disciplines.

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Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781498749176\n
Edition number: 2 New edition\n