Forensic Anthropology and Cognitive Bias

Abstract

Abstract The effect of cognitive bias in forensic science is being empirically tested within a number of forensic domains. The presence and impact of cognitive interpretation issues within the domain of forensic anthropology have yet to be fully recognized in much of the published literature. However, the experimental studies that have been carried out to examine the effect of external manipulations on judgment and decision‐making in forensic anthropological methods have revealed a significant influence. Current empirical findings focus on the visual interpretation of skeletal remains and the degree to which biases may occur when conducting a biological profile. This article deals with the influence of cognitive bias in forensic anthropological methods, with special emphasis on non‐metric assessments. It highlights the degree to which cognitive biases can potentially influence the forensic anthropologists' judgments and interpretations. It also provides recommendations for the mitigation of this effect to ensure that the value of forensic anthropology continues to develop and aid forensic investigations.