Additional Information

Available Through

Science Direct

Language

English

Notes

In this brief communication we discuss issues concerning scientific rigour in palaeopathological publications, particularly studies published in clinical or general science journals, that employ skeletal analysis to elucidate the lives and deaths of historical figures or interpret “mysterious” assemblages or burials. We highlight the relationship between poor methodological rigour and lack of interdisciplinary communication, and discuss how this can result in scientifically weak, sensational narratives being presented to the public.

Taxonomies

RPA Codes & Standards

• Appropriate Dissemination of Research
• Integrity of Research Methodology
• Maintaining Continuity of Records
• Procedures for Field Survey or Excavation
• Specimen and Research Record Storage

CIfA Codes

• Principle 3: Responsibility for acquiring and recording reliable information of the past in archaeological research
• Principle 4: Responsibility for the availability of archaeological results within reasonable dispatch

Keywords & Terms

• Adequate and Responsible Reporting, Publication, and Dissemination
• Dishonesty, Exaggeration, Fraud, Deceit, and/or Misrepresentation
• Integrity of Research Methodology and Field Procedures
• Standards of Data Collection, Recordation, Analysis

Topics & Issues

• Biological Anthropology/Archaeology
• Decolonizing Archaeology
• Descendant, Resident, and Stakeholder Communities
• Ethical Case Studies
• Ethical Dilemmas
• Ethical Responsibilities of Archaeologists
• Human Remains and Ethical Practice
• Interpreting the Past