X-Ray Polarimetry and Its Potential Use for Understanding Neutron Stars

We review the state of the art for measuring the X-ray polarization of neutron stars. We discuss how valuable precision measurements of the degree and po- sition angle of polarization as a function of energy and, where relevant, of pulse phase, would provide deeper in- sight into the details of the emission mechanisms. We then review the current state of instrumentation and its poten- tial for obtaining relevant data. Finally, we conclude our discussion with some opinions as to future directions.