What does the "Rule of Four" signify in the context of the U.S. Supreme Court?

The "Rule of Four" signifies that at least four justices of the U.S. Supreme Court must agree to grant a writ of certiorari in order for the Court to hear a case. This rule is significant because it ensures that a minority of the justices can compel the Court to review important legal issues, even if a majority does not wish to do so. It serves as a mechanism to encourage the Supreme Court to consider cases that may have substantial importance or varying interpretations in lower courts. This process reflects the Court's discretion in choosing which cases to hear, ensuring that significant issues can still receive judicial attention even when there is not unanimous interest among the justices.