There are numerous schools of thought that present themselves around election time. The one that bothers us most?

“If you don’t understand an issue, vote against it.”

While we sincerely hope all of our readers have educated themselves to the extent that such measures are unneeded, we’re also fairly certain that not everyone has put forth the effort to determine exactly what every ballot measure means. Should this prove the case, we offer this advice: If you do not understand the implications of a proposal — or initiatives, as the case is this month — don’t vote yes or no at all.

Is the North Kitsap Herald telling residents not to vote, period? Of course not, we have long promoted the democratic process and firmly believe that it is every eligible voters’ duty to participate in the process. We are simply cautioning those who have received their ballots and are confused by what they are being asked to support or deny. For these voters, and we know they are out there, we strongly suggest that they either a) use the next several days to educate themselves on issues they don’t comprehend or b) not pencil in a vote for or against such measures.

Why? Because doing so is a show that you back a proposal or that you don’t feel merits your vote. Notching a “yes” or “no” just for the sake of doing so is a disservice to the process and ultimately, a disservice to the voter.

Certainly, education is king when it comes to the ballots. One can never have too much information and it is our deep hope that the majority who read this at least read the county or state’s voters pamphlets before breaking out their No. 2 pencils. It’s those in the minority, who can unwittingly sway things one way or the other, who we hope follow our advice on this important matter.