Question

Forensic anthropologists note that if we separate all of humanity into three groups (white, black, Asian), there are common traits within a group that are based on inherited genes from a common ancestor. Due to the necessity of their jobs, these forensic anthropologists attempt to determine "race" from skeletal remains. Which of the following is a valid criticism of this approach to skeletons and race?
A. There are no phenotypic differences among whites, blacks, and Asians.
B. Extensive gene flow in the modern world means that no genetic differences exist between human populations anymore.
C. In using a small number of "races," forensic anthropologists will incorrectly identify individuals from populations such as the Middle East or India, with the potential for false identification of the deceased.
D. Mendel's Law of Independent Assortment says that genes for dark skin and curly hair are as likely to be found in white and Asian populations as they are in black populations.

Answer 1

Answer: C. In using a small number of "races," forensic anthropologists will incorrectly identify individuals from populations such as the Middle East or India, with the potential for false identification of the deceased.

Explanation:

Forensic anthropologists are the scientists who studies the morphological as well as the skeletal parts of the humans, animals, and birds both living or dead. These scientists can determine the age, sex and ethnic group or race in cases of impersonation as well as in cases of dead skeletal remains.

C. is the correct option, as it is a kind of bias. As the groups of humanity is wide in the form of white, black and Asian. Therefore, comparing the skeletal remains to small number of races can raise a valid criticism of the approach of skeletal examination and identification of deceased.