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(Shannon, 1948). This may, for the first
time, lead to some hypothesis testing of Locard’s transfer theory.
 
E.
Summary
We reiterate that understanding the fundamental nature of matter is the
essential starting point for a forensic scientist. A good grounding in chemistry
and physics provides this background knowledge. This information allows
for a determination of the relevant properties of a material that might be
useful in answering a legal question.
In attempting to identify those principles that are unique to forensic
science, we have in this chapter articulated what we believe are the two
principles involved in the origin of evidence: division of matter, and transfer
of the divided fragment from the source to a target. It is certainly true that
division and transfer occur whether a crime is being committed or not, or
whether we are aware of it or not. When applied to forensic science, however,
the division and transfer of matter becomes the division and transfer of
evidence. It is arguable that the amount and types of physical evidence at a
crime scene are more complex now than at the turn of the century; what
cannot be argued is that the simplistic view of a criminal acquiring traces
from the scene and leaving some of his own behind leaves out some inherent
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The Origin of Evidence — Divisible Matter and Transfer
99
ambiguity and complexity. Division of matter and transfer of divided mate-
rial or transfer of traits provides a theoretical framework for the collection,
analysis, and interpretation that occurs after a crime has been discovered.
 
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