Forensic Anthropology

Antropologia Forense

Course code:8059230

Nathalie Antunes Ferreira

Learning outcomes of the curricular unit:

The aim is to provide knowledge to develop an understanding about theory and applications of Forensic Anthropology, as well as the procedures applied in the field and in the laboratory. Thus, the learning objectives are: explore the history, aims, applications and ethical questions of Forensic Anthropology; demonstrate skills about the procedures used in prospecting and exhuming human remains; establish a taphonomic profile; understand the repercussions of taphonomic factors in skeletal analysis; differentiate forensic and archaeological bones; explain the limitations in investigating the cause of death; demonstrate the differences between bone and other materials, human and faunal bones and adult and non-adult skeletons; establish a biological profile; apply methods to estimate age, sex, stature and ancestry; develop skills in the identification of pathological bone changes (and trauma), taphonomic changes and anatomical features; provide differential diagnoses.

Syllabus:

1. Forensic Anthropology.
2. Forensic anthropology: common settings.
3. Fieldwork: methodologies and techniques.
4. Basic principles of Taphonomy.
5. Lab analysis: methodologies and techniques.

Suggested Bibliography:

• Ferreira, NA & Cunha AS (2011) Antropologia Forense. Quid Juris. Lisboa. ISBN: 978-972-383-9.
• Blau S & Ubelaker D (2011) Handbook of Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology (World Archaeological Congress Research). Left Coast Press, California. ISBN-10: 1611327938.
• Buikstra J & Ubelaker D (1994) Standards for data Collection from Human Skeletal Remains. Arkansas Archaeological Survey: Fayetteville.
• Byers S (2017) Introduction to Forensic Anthropology. Routledge: London. ISBN 1138188840.
• White T, Black M & Folkens P (2012) Human Osteology. Elsevier Academic Press. New Jersey. ISBN: 978-0-12-374134-9.