Sociology, Anthropology & Criminology On the Frequency of Cannibalism in History
Lainie Bell Megan Moore, faculty mentor The current scientific standard for determining cannibalism in historic remains is limiting. A wider focus needs to be taken in order to understand ritual cannibalistic practices of the past. The purpose of this research is to merge efforts of osteologists and archaeologists by comparing skeletal trauma analyses from sites of proposed cannibalism in the Americas and Africa with archaeological and historical data. The goal is to identify and relate patterns of culture and bone trauma that are indicative of ritualistic cannibalism. Oral / Q&A Session A
Explanation of Paranormal Phenomenon through Skeletal Analysis
Haley Dye Megan Moore, faculty mentor Paranormal phenomenon can be explained through science. This review explores archaeological human remains from around the world, focusing on burial context to better understand accusations of witchcraft, ritualistic violence, and possible underlying medical condition. We hope to demonstrate that the burial treatment was associated with an underlying medical condition. The skeletal remains of those buried irreverently or violently are compared to other burials within the same site. The results show that some of those likely accused of practicing witchcraft or having been possessed by spirits had an illness or another factor that led to diminished health, proved by abnormal skeletal remains. Poster / Q&A Session 3
STUDENT ABSTRACTS
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