An analysis is presented of the "Bakke" decision and the several opinions of the Supreme Court Justices. The principal issue presented by the case is whether a higher education institution using a selective admission program may adjust that program by giving explicit preference to qualified members of identified racial or ethnic groups who would otherwise be denied admission. The circumstances are outlined in the application and rejection of Allan Bakke to the Medical School of the University of California at Davis. Bakke's Case in the Superior Court of California is analyzed and the considerations in the Supreme Court decision relating to violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1965 are covered. The three principal opinions in the Supreme Court decision were by Justice Powell, one by Justices Brennan, White, Marshall, and Blackmun (each of the latter three also write separate opinions), and one by Justice Stevens (joined by Chief Justice Burger and Justices Stewart and Rehnquist). Implications of the decision that are discussed concern Title VI coverage, discretion in constructing admission plans. A basic conclusion to be drawn from this report is that the Supreme Court has recognized the authority of institutions of higher education to continue under certain circumstances their affirmative action programs. (SW)