Population affinity estimation in forensic anthropology: a South African perspective

Area of Science:

• Forensic Anthropology
• Biological Anthropology
• Bioarchaeology

Background:

• Estimating population affinity from skeletal remains involves inferring social constructs of race from biological traits.
• Challenges arise from the interplay of social race, skeletal morphology, geographic origin, assortative mating, and institutional racism.
• The distinction between population affinity and "race" is nuanced and complex.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review population affinity estimation in forensic anthropology.
• To focus on the complexities within the South African context.
• To critically evaluate traditional and emerging estimation methods.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of forensic anthropology studies.
• Analysis of historical and foundational background on population affinity.
• Evaluation of medico-legal significance and estimation techniques.

Main Results:

• Population affinity estimation is complicated by the conflation of biological and social factors.
• Regional variations, particularly in South Africa, present unique challenges.
• Emerging methods offer potential advancements in accuracy.

Conclusions:

• Understanding human variation is key to overcoming challenges in population affinity estimation.
• Further research is needed to refine methods and address ethical considerations.
• This review contributes to ongoing debates in forensic anthropology regarding race and skeletal analysis.