Discussion 1

Many people might enjoy watching the latest forensic science show on television and believe they have strongly grasped forensic science and what forensic scientists do, but is that perception accurate? The phenomenon known as the CSI effect continues to attract significant debate as it can potentially impact all areas of the criminal justice system. This discussion examines popular perceptions about forensic science and the role this field has on the criminal justice system.

Prior to beginning work on this discussion, please review the following:

  • From the text Chapter 1: Forensic Science and Criminalistics
  • The web page 
  • The article 
  • From the free PDF copy at the web page :
    • Introduction
    • Findings and Recommendations
  • From the free, downloadable resource at the web page :
    • Section A: Arriving at the Scene
    • Section B: Preliminary Documentation & Evaluation of the Scene
  • The video 
    • Segment 1.   05:04
    • Segment 2.   04:32
  • The video 

In an initial post of at least 250 words in length, and including at least one in-text citation,

  • Summarize the CSI effect and
  • Evaluate if it is a legitimate concern.
  • Analyze the effects potential impact on at least two elements of the criminal justice system.
  • Identify how the reality of forensics might differ from perceptions resulting from popular television shows.