An Argument for Partial Admissibility of Polygraph Results in Trials by Courts-Martial
Abstract
This thesis examines the history of polygraphy in the context of the recent controversy over the admissibility of polygraph results. Following an introductory chapter, Chapter II provides an historical perspective on the detection of deception. Chapter III reviews the fundamentals of the polygraph technique, including the machine and its components (i.e., cardiosphymograph, pneumograph, galvanometer, kymograph, and calibration); the theory of the polygraph; and the control question format, including the pretest, the stimulation test, the polygraph test, and scoring the charts. Chapter IV examines the polygraph and the courts, specifically the federal courts, the state courts, the case of Gipson, and a critique of the Frye standard. This chapter also looks at traditional arguments against polygraph admissibility, including its validity and reliability, the validity of other scientific evidence, the aura of scientific infallibility, the validity dilemma, confusion of the court, and other common misconceptions, such as the sociopathic personality and the friendly polygraph examiner. Chapter V addresses research and training, and Chapter VI presents a proposal for limited admissibility. The author proposes solutions to some polygraph shortcomings, and concludes that results indicating no deception by the subject should be admitted in trials by courts-martial.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA451141
Entities
People
- J. F. Burnette
Organizations
- The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School