Page:The Wisconsin idea (IA cu31924032449252).pdf/242

 defects, technical or otherwise, are carefully indexed. As far as possible in the Wisconsin department the more important subjects with short bibliographies are published in pamphlet form.

Such a department must be absolutely non-political and non-partisan. If there is a choice between the establishment of a political department or no department at all, the latter alternative should be taken without question.

The head of such a department should be trained in economics, political science and social science in general; he should have a good knowledge of constitutional law but above all, should be possessed of tact and a knowledge of human nature.

There should be a trained draftsman connected with the department—a man who is a good lawyer and something more than a lawyer—one who has studied legislative forms, who can draw a bill, revise a statute and amend a bill. It is essential that help such as a man of this type can render, be given to the legislator when he desires it.

Will such a department help in the betterment of legislation?

Let us consider for a moment how a law is actually made. John Smith comes to the legislature. He is a good citizen, a man of hard sense and well respected in his community. Suddenly, from the quiet of his native