Product Description

Unlike other introductory textbooks on the topic, Fundamentals of Forensic Science presents a complete look at the forensic sciences, emphasizing the biology, chemistry, and physical sciences that underpin forensic science. By covering the principles that are central to forensic science, and by discussing topics that are typically excluded from generalized discussions of "criminalistics," this book provides a depth and breadth of information that no other textbook contains. Written by two of the leading experts in forensic science today, Fundamentals of Forensic Science approaches the field from a truly unique and exciting perspective.

Ranging from traditional topics such as crime scene investigation, spectroscopy, and DNA analysis, to the less-commonly covered --but just as essential-- topics of pathology, entomology, and anthropology, Fundamentals of Forensic Science is everything a student or practicing professional needs. Organized along the timeline of a real case, it begins with an introduction and history of forensic science, covers the basic methods of analysis used in most forensic examinations, addresses the biological, chemical, and physical elements relevant to the field, and concludes with an examination of how forensic science intersects with the law.

- Vivid, full-color illustrations that diagram key concepts and depict evidence encountered in the field
- Straightforward unit organization that includes key terms, numerous feature boxes emphasizing resources on the World Wide Web, historical events in forensic science, practical issues in laboratory analysis, and topics for further reading
- Effective pedagogy -including end-of-chapter questions- paired with a clear writing style makes this an invaluable resource for professors and students of forensic science

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #83052 in Books
• Published on: 2006-04-28
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 688 pages

Review
"[This book] approaches the field from a truly unique and exciting perspective . . . everything a student or practicing professional needs." - The Journal of Law Enforcement

"Fundamentals of Forensic Science is an excellent textbook that would be an equally useful reference for security managers and investigators in both the private and public sectors." - Security Management magazine

About the Author
Max M. Houck is the Director of the Forensic Science Initiative at West Virginia University, a program that develops research and professional training for forensic scientists and related professionals. Mr. Houck is a trace evidence expert and forensic anthropologist who was assigned to the Trace Evidence Unit at the FBI Laboratory from 1992 to 2001. While at the FBI, Mr. Houck worked over 800 cases, including several major cases. Before joining WVU, he was assigned to Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, to assist with the examination and identification of the victims of the 9-11-01 Pentagon attack. Mr. Houck is the recipient of an FBI Performance Award and the ASTM Forensic Sciences Award in 2000. Mr. Houck is the editor of two volumes of case reviews, Mute Witnesses and Trace Evidence Analysis, both published with Academic Press.

Jay Siegel is Director of the Forensic and Investigative Sciences Program at Indiana University Purdue University, Indianapolis and Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology. He holds a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from George Washington University. He worked for 3 years at the Virginia Bureau of Forensic Sciences, analyzing drugs, fire residues and trace evidence. From 1980 to 2004 he was professor of forensic chemistry and Director of the forensic science program at Michigan State University in the School of Criminal Justice. Dr. Siegel has testified over 200 times as an expert witness in 12 states, Federal Court and Military Court. He is Editor in Chief of the Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences, author of Forensic Science: A Beginner's Guide and Fundamentals of Forensic Science and has over 30 publications in forensic science journals. Dr. Siegel was awarded the 2005 Paul Kirk Award for lifetime achievement in forensic science. In February 2009, he was named Distinguished Fellow by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. In April 2009 he was named the Distinguished Alumni Scholar Award by his alma mater, George Washington University.

Customer Reviews

Attention to Detail is Important
Attention to detail is important in almost all areas of endeavor, but especially so in forensic science. This book violates that fundamental in the first chapter. In describing the trial of Theodore Robert Bundy for the Chi Omega Sorority murders, it refers to the testimony of a certain forensic odontologist, and says that as a result of the testimony of the forensic odonotologist, Bundy was executed. This is incorrect. Bundy was not executed for the Chi Omega murders, but for the subsequent murder of a young girl. Forensic science figured prominently in that conviction also, but it was microanalysis and shoetrack comparison, not forensic odontology, that was instrumental in sending Bundy to the electric chair.

As to the circumstances of the odontological evidence at the Chi Omega trial, the book is again in error on its details. It says a plaster cast was made of a bite mark on one of the victims. The plaster cast was taken of Bundy's teeth, not of the bite mark. The bite mark was photographed.

What was accurate about the account of the Chi Omega trial was that Bundy was convicted and that forensic odontology played a role in the conviction and little else.

Fundamentals is easy to read but a wealth of forensic information
Forensic Scientists Max Houck and Jay Siegel have just released a forensic science text which is perfect for beginners but offers much for seasoned scientists. The book's thoroughness is revealed across its 672 pages. Topics include a discussion of criminal justice and forensic science, analytical tools and introductions to biological science, chemical science, and physical science. Forensic science's relationship with law is in the concluding chapter.

The work is ideal for introductory forensic students. There are plenty of crime scene photos and diagrams to make the words on the page come to life. The authors do not skimp on technical aspects but make sure that those technical aspects are explained well. Each chapter contains important words in bold. A novice will quickly be drawn into this work but not overwhelmed by it. A knowledgeable professor, interested students, and this book should provide for a successful course. The text will serve also as a quick reference book for forensic science. The book is good for professors, for students, and as a reference. It is a must-have book for all of those who teach forensic science.

Daniel W. Phillips III, Ph.D., Assistant Professor
Lindsey Wilson College
Columbia, Kentucky 42728
phillipsd@lindsey.edu

Comprehensive but easy to read
I purchased this book as a requirement for my introduction to forensic science class, which I took in a summer session so it was really condensed. I am not a science buff, but I fully understood all of the concepts presented in the book. Although a little bulky the font is rather large so the reading goes relatively fast. There are quite a bit of illustrations to compound the information provided. But be warned...some of the illustrations are a little graphic in nature! The subject bares that fact. My only complaint is there is no electronic version of the book which means you have to carry to book around if you want to get some reading done in your spare time. Otherwise it's a great buy for anyone looking to break into the field or just has a general interest in the subject.

LW