A "Balancing Test" is a method used in law and decision-making to weigh competing interests or rights. It helps determine which side should prevail by considering the importance of each interest involved. For example, in cases involving freedom of speech versus public safety, the test assesses how much each interest is affected by a particular action or law.
This approach is often applied in constitutional law, where courts evaluate the implications of laws on individual rights. By balancing these interests, judges aim to reach a fair outcome that respects both the rights of individuals and the needs of society.