Death Investigations

¶ … virtual autopsy table and video depicting an autopsy was very informative in many different ways. The practical knowledge expressed in these two examples was complete and simplified for the lay person. The knowledge was enhanced by the visual aspects of both examples. The subject of autopsy is one that is extremely amplified by the use of visual examples and the inclusion of them in this instruction, has provided a new appreciation and respect for the practice and its necessity within our society's criminal justice system.

I learned that it takes a unique and special professional to perform these tasks on a day-to-day basis, and a certain personality type is also needed as well. One of the most glaring ideas that resonated with me on this subject was the precision that autopsy must have in investigating the causes of death. Autopsy examinations are critical to the criminal investigations that require such inquiries. The need for accurate and delicate crime lab skills are aptly demonstrated in these examples contained within the video and the visual table. c.

The video is mostly complete in its presentation about autopsy and forensic investigations. The graphic nature of the autopsy was treated with respect, yet still demonstrated the brutal truths about life and death. The human examined in these examples was portrayed as expendable and not important. For me that could be adjusted to demonstrate more respect for life and the human body itself. Overall if anything should be added, there could be even more detail added that may include examples of some common indicators that are seen in suspect deaths.

d. The fragility of life and imminent facing of our own mortality became clearer to me as I learned about death investigations and how autopsy plays a role in this process. The St. Leo's core value of "Personal Development " is aptly represented in this exercise as I learned.