CSI on TV Vs. Real-Life Crime Scene Investigations

CSI is an intriguing series, which draws viewers in to the dark minds of the criminals, and the twisted cases that the agents confront within the hour. Drawing viewers of the younger crowd all the way to the older individuals. The show allows you to see everything from the discovery of the crime, to the solved case in the end. Though it does not prove that the one the evidence links to the crime is actually taken to court, or charged. Though, from some influences in the police science environment, I have learned that discrepancies within the episode do influence individuals who might be called in on a case.

The common misconceptions of CSI vs CSI RL (Real Life) now has a technical term: The CSI Effect. This is not in all actuality a positive reality. The rising popularity of the series has drawn individuals toward the Forensics aspects of higher learning, only to discover that life is not what they show on the television. This is to take a look at the differences between the real life CSI vs the televised CSI.

One of the negative aspects of the series, and public belief, is that most jurors expect forensic evidence at every trial, and enough to convict a person. This is not plausible in a lot of cases. Most evidence as well, that is presented is not as clear or clean cut as what is seen on the popular series. Fingerprints are not normally as clean and easily marked or proven. DNA evidence is typically not as easily attainable, as well most of the machines, or the lab technology is not something you would see in most crime labs.

Many crimes, are not as traceable as they seem on the series either. Many take weeks, even months to gather and produce all of the evidence. Where as on the television series they are cut, dried, and used within one single evening. One needs to ask the question, is the series harming, or simply entertaining the masses? I am an avid CSI viewer, who enjoys the stories, as well as the characters that have grown with the series. Yet stepping back, and looking at it from a view, that the series may actually be harming its followers is somewhat disturbing.

Yet, I have to admit, I will not quit watching the show simply because of these differences or discrepancies. I do hope this does not dissuade any viewers of the series who enjoy it. Though keep in mind, it is television. It will be flashier than real life. It was created for entertainment purposes, not as a true view of what goes on behind closed doors.