Publication

2011 - University of Chicago Press

Language

English

Word Count

97,750 words, Guess

Page Count

391 pages

Identifiers

  • ISBN-100226498077
  • ISBN-139780226498072
  • OCLC Control Number701208969
  • Better World Books9780226498072
  • Open LibraryOL34594539M

Classifications

  • LCCRA1057.55.T78 2011

Description

DNA profiling-commonly known as DNA fingerprinting-is often heralded as unassailable criminal evidence, a veritable "truth machine" that can overturn convictions based on eyewitness testimony, confessions, and other forms of forensic evidence. But DNA evidence is far from infallible. It is subject to the same possibilities for error-in sample collection, forensic analysis, and clerical record keeping-as any other aspect of criminal justice practice. Truth Machine traces the controversial history of DNA fingerprinting by looking at court cases in the United States and United Kingdom beginning in the mid-1980s, when the practice was invented, and continuing until the present. Using interviews, observations of courtroom trials and laboratory processes, and documentary reconstruction, the authors provide a nuanced, theoretically sophisticated, and original ethnographic account of DNA fingerprinting and its evolution. Ultimately, Truth Machine presents compelling evidence of the obstacles and opportunities at the intersection of science, technology, sociology, and law.--From publisher information.

Subjects

Other Editions

  • Truth MachineUniversity of Chicago Press2011

Reader Reviews

No reviews yet for this book.

Be the first to share your thoughts!