Innovative methods in forensic science: The science of forensic dermatoglyphics

Abstract

Forensic dermatoglyphics describes the study of the features and characteristics of the prints and volar surfaces of the hands and feet, as well as the flexors, functional folds, and skin of the person as a whole. It also studies the traces of them found on various items during investigative and search activities in order to determine the character features and body specifics using genetic, national, and geographical traits. Serving as a background for this paper is the fact that in 2016 dermatoglyphics was deemed a pseudoscience. Due to this, it was decided to study the current problems of dermatoglyphics, particularly forensic dermatoglyphics, using proven methods of scientific research as the basis. These include the necessary differentiation of scientific knowledge in combination with its necessary integration with other sciences. At the same time, the method of deduction allowed us to draw conclusions about the unfoundedness of forensic dermatoglyphics as a field of science, at least in its current state. This paper relied on data obtained by various authors. However, forensic dermatoglyphic research is currently being carried out in small groups of test subjects which cannot be a reliable base for scientific statistics; it was concluded that further research focused on developing ways of using dermatoglyphic data in court and investigative practices can only be carried out on a significant empirical basis by creative teams which are made up of representatives of anthropology, doctors of various specialties, primarily, dermatologists, and criminal lawyers. Only this approach will help solve the question in the future about whether or not forensic dermatoglyphics can become a field of science.