A hefty percentage of the citizens of this country watched the presidential debates. If you take your vote seriously, it makes sense to listen to the goals of the candidates. My mother took voting seriously enough for both of us, but she has moved on to another kingdom, one with a Ruler who will reign forever. Still while she was on earth she leaned forward in her chair, attending to the platforms of every hopeful for all of her adult life. Her kids new better than to interrupt her during a convention. She voted in fifteen primary elections.

There are several books on my shelf that promote being curious before you tie the knot. Things I Wish I'd Known Before We Got Married, 101 Things I Wish I Knew When I Got Married, For Men Only, For Women Only, 100 Essential Questions to Ask Before You Say I Do.  There are other surveys you can take together or apart, like the 5 Love Languages, and Introvert vs Extrovert.

It can be prudent to not be surprised to find out four years in that your partner is not interested in having children, or that they think gambling is a reasonable budget item. Such knowledge does not provide immunity to conflict, but it can better your odds. 

Having those conversations is part of good premarital counseling. A mentor couple can also help the two of you make the transition from foggy to clear. 

I am a card carrying advocate of such books and programs. Yet there is another avenue for knowing someone before you weld your lives together. 

Watch how they live.