As elected coroners came to be replaced by medical examiners with
scientific training, the American public became fascinated with their
work. From the grisly investigations showcased on highly rated
television shows like C.S.I. to the bestselling mysteries that revolve
around forensic science, medical examiners have never been so
visible--or compelling. They, and they alone, solve the riddle of
suspicious death and the existential questions that come with it. Why
did someone die? Could it have been prevented? Should someone be held
accountable? What are the implications of ruling a death a suicide, a
homicide, or an accident? Can medical examiners unmask the perfect
crime?
Postmortem goes deep inside the world of medical examiners to uncover
the intricate web of pathological, social, legal, and moral issues in
which they operate. Stefan Timmermans spent years in a medical
examiner's office, following cases, interviewing examiners, and watching
autopsies. While he relates fascinating cases here, he is also more
broadly interested in the cultural authority and responsibilities that
come with being a medical examiner. Although these professionals attempt
to remain objective, medical examiners are nonetheless responsible for
evaluating subtle human intentions. Consequently, they may end--or
start--criminal investigations, issue public health alerts, and even
cause financial gain or harm to survivors. How medical examiners speak
to the living on behalf of the dead, is Timmermans's subject, revealed
here in the day-to-day lives of the examiners themselves.
