Forensic identification: From a faith-based "Science" to a scientific science

Abstract

This article reviews the fundamental assumptions of forensic identification (" individualization" ) science and notes the lack of empirical evidence or theory supporting its typical strong claims. The article then discusses three general research strategies for placing these fields on firmer scientific ground. It concludes by suggesting what forensic identification science experts can do while awaiting that scientific foundation. © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd.