15. Internationale Tagung der Gesellschaft für Anthropologie

Erstellt von Florian Meyer am 10.04.2025

15. Internationale Tagung der Gesellschaft für Anthropologie in Kiel

Marie-Luise Heuschkel präsentiert einen Vortrag zum Thema “Anthropology and Forensics: Unlocking New Synergies and Applications”.

Biological anthropology can address complex problems, thereby evolving within fields such as medicine, biomechanics, and forensic science. Anthropology shares key methodologies with forensic science, including the search for traces, analysis of evidence, comparative science, and contextual data interpretation. Context allows for precise and meaningful interpretations of data, ensuring reliable results across diverse scenarios. This work examines shared principles of both disciplines while addressing the interdisciplinary potential and challenges of adapting methods to novel applications and specific cases. Digital anthropometric pattern matching, a method used for identifying perpetrators from surveillance footage, serves as a case study to illustrate how these synergies can drive progress in both fields. Digital anthropometric pattern matching illustrates the transfer of anthropological methods and frameworks to forensic contexts. It involves systematically comparing anthropometric patterns derived from digital sources, such as 2D imagery from surveillance footage, to identify perpetrators. This method demonstrates how anthropological approaches can effectively address complex forensic problems through interdisciplinary application. The analysis demonstrates the complementary strengths of anthropology and forensics. Digital-anthropometric pattern matching proves to be an innovative tool for identifying individuals, emphasizing the importance of effective adaptation and comparative science. It also illustrates the potential for interdisciplinary collaboration to address diverse forensic challenges and expand the scope of both fields. By leveraging shared methodologies and addressing common challenges, anthropology and forensics can “move forward” together. The integration of digital tools enhances the adaptability and practical relevance of anthropological methods, fostering innovation and reinforcing their application in modern forensic contexts.