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Is the (traditional) Galilean science paradigm well suited to forensic science?
Author(s) -
Crispino Frank,
Roux Claude,
Delémont Olivier,
Ribaux Olivier
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
wiley interdisciplinary reviews: forensic science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2573-9468
DOI - 10.1002/wfs2.1349
Subject(s) - forensic science , jurisprudence , engineering ethics , philosophy of science , quality (philosophy) , epistemology , sociology , political science , law , engineering , medicine , philosophy , veterinary medicine
For more than 10 years, forensic science has been at best, criticized for its lack of scientific foundations and at worst, presented as an oxymoron. An exclusive focus on standard operating procedures and quality management could cause forensic science to fall short of addressing the epistemological issue initiated by judges. This is particularly so in rapidly changing times, including digital transformation of society and decentralization of forensic services. As a consequence, the present understanding of forensic science by both scientists and its stakeholders is questioned. It is argued that that forensic science fundamental principles and, more broadly, forensic science philosophy are pivotal to the reliable application of science to address security and justice questions. This article is categorized under: Forensic Science in Action/Crime Scene Investigation > Epistemology and Method Jurisprudence and Regulatory Oversight > Communication across Science and Law Jurisprudence and Regulatory Oversight > Expert Evidence and Narrative