Skeptics point out that political bargaining characterizes the public-decision process, not an exercise in rational consideration by nonpolitical administrators. So what service can cost-benefit analysis provide? First, the analysis augments the political influence of underrepresented potential beneficiaries and identifies the position of cost bearers. A display of costs and benefits makes it more difficult for the unrepresented to ignored in political bargaining. In some instances, it can be a valuable weapon (for either side) in the “ it pays for itself” budget strategy. Second, economic efficiency--------- the guiding force of cost-benefit analysis --- is but one of several public goals. Even though a decision may not be based primarily on those grounds, the potential gains sacrificed in the selection of a particular public policy is important information. Third, cost-benefit analysis forces public decision making to focus on the value of competing alternatives. Valuation and the accompanying process of competing priorities are the keys to sound decision making, so cost-benefit analysis directs attention to vital question.