When Justice Lewis Powell stated that racial and ethnic distinctions require the most "exacting judicial examination," he meant these qualities required reliably consistent judgement. exceptionally neutral evaluation. extremely precise consideration. swiftly determined punishment.

## Step 1<br />The problem is a comprehension question based on a statement made by Justice Lewis Powell. The statement is about racial and ethnic distinctions requiring the most "exacting judicial examination". The term "exacting" is the key to understanding this question.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />The term "exacting" is used to describe something that requires a high level of precision, attention to detail, and careful consideration. In this context, Justice Powell is saying that racial and ethnic distinctions require the most careful and precise judicial examination.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Now, we need to choose the option that best fits this interpretation. The options are: reliably consistent judgement, exceptionally neutral evaluation, extremely precise consideration, and swiftly determined punishment.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />The option "extremely precise consideration" aligns with the meaning of "exacting" in this context. It implies a high level of precision and attention to detail, which is what Justice Powell is suggesting.