Everybody has an opinion. Each of us has a point of view on at least one issue of public concern. Around election time, and at most other times too, we somehow reach our individual conclusions on topics of the day, big and small. Most of us find frequent opportunities to express those opinions as well. This is obviously just as it should be in a democracy, especially one that so highly values free speech. We share and test our ideas through “the eternal arguing that is the essence of American democracy.” 1 The premise of this book is that the ordinary citizen could form his opinions on public issues—and fulfill his civic responsibility—more intelligently and confidently if he had more guidance on how to do it. More specifically, he could benefit from perspectives on how to evaluate the information and arguments swirling around him, seek out additional information if he thinks he needs it, and reach conclusions about what makes sense and what does not. The individual who is better oriented and equipped in these ways can contribute much more effectively to a rational and civil discussion of these issues. As is widely recognized, in recent years there has been a serious and disheartening paucity of such public discussion. This book, drawing from the tools and traditions of the American legal system, offers guidance to aid the citizen in understanding public issues and participating in the type of responsible public debate these challenging issues deserve.