[AndrewC]

The average citizen can't do anything about it, ever, except perhaps through the ballot box, but that's a longshot.

Well, here we have to disagree. You and I are doing it right now. We are complaining about the decision and giving our reasons. That is the purpose of the first amendment. Enough complaining and things will get done. (at least that is the idea behind the first)

[Dog Gone]

I suppose you're correct in the sense that the Court isn't entirely tonedeaf to public opinion and every bit of public comment might help in some future case to help influence judicial opinion. Surely if they're willing to look to european courts for guidance, they might consider public opinion and thought in some small degree.

Constitutionally, though, the public has no direct way to influence decisions. We get a very indirect way to do so in our choice of President and Senators but our control over their decisions once they're elected is minimal.

Our voices can affect those who seek re-election and politicians generally want to keep their constituencies satisfied. But I'm not going to think that my posts at this forum will do much to affect current Supreme Court decisions. I don't think they'll do anything.