| Description |
x, 367 pages ; 24 cm |
| Series |
Fieldwork encounters and discoveries |
|
Fieldwork encounters and discoveries.
|
| Contents |
Introduction: Brokering suspicious deaths -- Making the case for heart disease -- The fifty-one percent rule of suicide -- Forensic credibility at the "nanny trial" -- The perfect crime -- A baby died. Where were the parents? -- The organ and tissue trade -- Conclusion: The hope of forensic authority -- Postscript: "How can you watch autopsies?" |
| Summary |
"Postmortem goes deep inside the world of medical examiners to uncover the intricate web of pathological, social, legal, and moral issues in which they operate. Stefan Timmermans spent years in a medical examiner's office, following cases, interviewing examiners, and watching autopsies. While he relates fascinating cases here, he is also more broadly interested in the cultural authority and responsibilities that come with being a medical examiner. Although these professionals attempt to remain objective, medical examiners are nonetheless responsible for evaluating subtle human intentions. Consequently, they may end - or start - criminal investigations, issue public health alerts, and even cause financial gain or harm to survivors. How medical examiners speak to the living on behalf of the dead, is Timmermans's subject, revealed here in the day-to-day lives of the examiners themselves."--BOOK JACKET |
| Bibliography |
Includes bibliographical references (pages [331]-356) and index |
| Subject |
Forensic sciences.
|
|
Criminal investigation.
|
|
Autopsy.
|
|
Death -- Causes.
|
|
Death -- Proof and certification.
|
|
Medical examiners (Law)
|
| LC no. |
2005032147 |
| ISBN |
0226803988 hardback |
|
