Papers on the U.S. Supreme Court examine variables that affect conflict and its resolution and consider dissent rates by chief justices from Marshall to Burger. Other essays on the U.S. Supreme Court consider whether new appointments from 1953 through 1981 led to greater consensus and analyze conflict and consensus during Frankfurter's years on the Warren Court. Essays on the U.S. courts of appeals examine factors that affect appeals court dissent, question whether recent structural and operational changes affect dissensus, examine agreement and disagreement in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and investigate conflict in the District of Columbia Circuit Court. Essays on State supreme courts investigate dissent in these courts, explore judicial leadership, explain the historical evolution of dissent in the Arizona court, and consider agenda setting and coalition building on the California Supreme Court. Overall, the essays provide new insights into judges' attitudes and values, role perceptions, and small group interactions. Tables, figures, chapter references, subject index. (Publisher summary modified)