Implications of a Low sin(2 beta): A Strategy for Exploring New Flavor Physics

We explore the would-be consequences of a low value of the CP-violating phase $\sin2\beta_{\psi K}$. The importance of a reference triangle obtained from measurements that are independent of $B$--$\bar B$ and $K$--$\bar K$ mixing is stressed. It can be used to extract separately potential New Physics contributions to mixing in the $B_d$, $B_s$ and $K$ systems. We discuss several constructions of this triangle, which will be feasible in the near future. The discrete ambiguity is at most two-fold and eventually can be completely removed. Simultaneously, it will be possible to probe for New Physics in loop-dominated rare decays.