The Decolonial Turn in Forensic Anthropology.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Anthropology
• Decolonial Studies

Background:

• Forensic anthropology, a mature discipline, faces critiques regarding its colonial origins and Western epistemological foundations.
• The decolonial turn challenges universal Western knowledge systems, advocating for diverse epistemologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize decolonization efforts within forensic anthropology.
• To organize these efforts into five key areas: categories, casework, curricula, competence, and collections.
• To highlight the emerging importance of 'care' within the discipline.

Main Methods:

• The study synthesizes existing discourse on decolonization in forensic anthropology.
• It categorizes decolonization efforts into five 'C's': categories, casework, curricula, competence, and collections.
• It identifies a sixth emergent theme: care.

Main Results:

• Decolonization efforts address debates in sex, ancestry, and vulnerability estimation (categories).
• Casework discussions involve humanitarian action, community involvement, and challenges to positivism.
• Curricula and competence reviews focus on education and expertise valuation.
• Collections examine knowledge extraction from the deceased.
• A sixth 'C', care, is revealed as crucial.

Conclusions:

• Decolonization is imperative for the continued relevance of forensic anthropology in a postcolonial world.
• Addressing the discipline's colonial legacy is essential, particularly concerning its impact on colonized populations.
• Integrating 'care' is vital for ethical and equitable practice.