1. Bones: Everyone has the latest gadgets and huge touch-screen computers
Reality: Some labs like the FBI and state labs have advanced equipment. However, every crime lab cannot afford the equipment what you see on TV.
2. Bones: Solving cases with the constant fighting and tension between Brennan and Booth, or the tension between Ryan and Brennan.
Reality: All the tension may be entertaining, but it’s not realistic. At an actual crime scene, it’s just like any other job. There is a level of professionalism, and the drama is kept to a bare minimum.
3. Bones: The forensic anthropologist visits the families or suspects
Reality: To visit families or suspects is not a part of a forensic anthropologist’s job description. The detectives are the individuals who meet the families and interview the suspects.
4. Bones: Every single case is solved and complex
Reality: In reality, every case is not solved. Sometimes in cases DNA is not even found, just circumstantial evidence. Not everything connects as described in Reich’s novels or the TV show Bones.
5. Bones: Cases involve some sentimental or personal significance
Reality: Forensic anthropologist or detectives for that matter do not preside over a case that has emotional significance or personal value. This would be deemed as a conflict of interest and they would be taken off the case.
6. Bones: All these elaborate tests and experiments are conducted in the lab to solve cases (wood chipper)
Reality: Usually, forensic anthropologists have a certain protocol and guidelines they follow to gather information about their unknown subject. Diverging from these guidelines and trying experimental methods could jeopardize the credibility of the evidence found.
Conclusion: While both the novel and TV show have inaccurate representation of forensic anthropology, the novel is still the more of accurate of the two. The novel is a more accurate representation because it abides by some of the protocols and...