The criterion separating Forensic Anthropologists from other Anthropologists or
Archeologists is that they operate within the realm of the medico-legal system.
One definition of the term “forensic” means relating to or dealing with the application
of scientific knowledge to legal problems. In the context of this volume
the authors are discussing the application of scientific knowledge as it pertains to
anthropology casework performed in the legal milieu.
Forensic Anthropology has its roots in Biological or Physical Anthropology.
Much of the methodological underpinnings of the science were developed for use
on dissection cadavers or on skeletons derived from archeological contexts. The
application of these scientific principles to forensic casework began organically
as consultations to local academicians and slowly morphed into the varied and
dynamic field of study observed today.