Uses and representations of science and ICT in courts – interactions, mediations and ambivalences

Abstract

This presentation analyzes the transformations at the level of the daily judiciary practices caused by what has become known as scientific proof (by focusing the particular case of DNA typing) and by the use of the new information and communication technology (ICT), such as the use of personal computers’ tools, hence at the magistrates dispose, such as word processor, e-mail and internet and changes on trial’s social interactions, namely by the use of video conferencing during trials. Another relevant aspect of the presence of the ICTs under study is the perceptions about the possible impacts on citizen’s rights raised by the creation of information systems containing personal data (namely genetic information) used for justice administration purposes.