Science and pseudoscience in law enforcement: A user-friendly primer

Description

Pseudoscience and questionable science are largely neglected problems in police and other law enforcement work. In this primer, the authors delineate the key differences between science and pseudoscience, presenting 10 probabilistic indicators or warning signs, such as lack of falsifiability, absence of safeguards against confirmation bias, and lack of self-correction, that can help consumers of the police literature to distinguish scientific from pseudoscientific claims. Each of these warning signs is illustrated with an example from law enforcement. By attending to the differences between scientific and pseudoscientific assertions, police officers and other law enforcement officials can minimize their risk of errors and make better real-world decisions.

Format

Journal

Language

English

Author(s)

Scott O. Lilienfeld
Kristin Landfield

Original Work Citation

Lilienfeld, S. O., & Landfield, K. (2008, October). Science and pseudoscience in law enforcement: A user-friendly primer. Criminal Justice and Behavior, 35(10), 1215-1230. doi:10.1177/0093854808321526

Citation

“Science and pseudoscience in law enforcement: A user-friendly primer,” Francine Shapiro Library, accessed May 12, 2024, https://francineshapirolibrary.omeka.net/items/show/18410.

Output Formats