In this course, designed for students who do not plan to major in the natural
sciences, we use a case-oriented approach to explore selected topics of forensic
science. These include: (1) the scientific and technological foundation for the
examination of physical, chemical, and biological items of evidence, and (2) the
scope of expert qualifications and testimony, the legal status of scientific techniques, and the admissibility of the results in evidence. The analysis of trace evidence, including glass, soil, gunpowder residues and bullet fragments, and inorganic and heavy metal poisons are discussed through an understanding of the
basic concepts of chemistry and analytical chemistry. Forensic toxicology and
pharmacology are applied to the analysis of alcohol, poisons, and drugs based
upon the principles of organic chemistry and biochemistry. The characterization
of blood and other body fluids necessitate an understanding of serology and molecular genetics. The cases which stimulate the exploration of these areas include: the John and Robert Kennedy assassinations, the Jeffrey MacDonald case
(Fatal Vision), the Wayne Williams case, the deaths of celebrities Marilyn Monroe, John Belushi, and Janis Joplin, the authenticity of the Shroud of Turin, the
Lindberg baby kidnapping, the Tylenol poisonings, and the identity of Anastasia.
An interactive laboratory program provides an appreciation of scientific experimentation in general and the work of a crime lab in particular. It includes an
analysis of evidence collected at various crime scenes and provides an opportunity to learn forensic techniques such as chromatography (for ink, drug, and fire
accelerant analysis), spectroscopy (for alcohol and drug analysis), and electrophoresis (for DNA fingerprinting).
This course is designed for the non-science major who does not intend to pursue
a career in the natural sciences.
Format: lecture, three hours per week; laboratory, four hours per week. Evaluation will be based on problem sets and/or quizzes, hour tests, a final exam, and
laboratory performance.
No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 30 (expected: 30).