The preface to the first edition sets out the
goals we hoped to accomplish by preparing
the volume titled, Biological Anthropology of
the Human Skeleton. In this second edition
we endeavor to maintain those goals, to update
recent developments in skeletal studies and
particularly, to emphasize information that provides
the reader with a basic understanding of
the various techniques and methods of investigating
bones and teeth. Many chapters include
examples, set off from the main body of the
text, that illustrate or offer more detail about
the particular analysis under consideration. We
also provide six new chapters on topics not
covered in the previous edition. These topics
include taphonomic factors affecting burial
assemblages, nonmetric traits of the skeleton
and dentition, trauma, osteoporosis, and new
developments in morphometric analysis. It is
our hope that the book will be used in upper
level undergraduate and graduate courses in
human skeletal studies (e.g., advanced human
osteology) as well as by interested professionals
seeking a better understanding of advanced
methods in osteological research. The chapters
should provide an entry point into a particular
specialty, with background information as well
as practical guidelines, applications, and critical
reviews of research approaches, including a
wealth of selected references for additional
reading.