Justice Thomas is the perfect example of how hard it can be for a judge to lay aside the personal experiences that shape his worldview.

CNN: Commentary: Judge Sotomayor is not a racist

Lay asserted that the company was in good shape, but the last few months of Enron's life turned into a free fall.

NPR: Enron: On the Prosecution's List

This ploy led to the conviction of Kenneth Lay, Enron's former chairman, who said the firm was in good shape as it hurtled towards bankruptcy.

ECONOMIST: Jail time for financial titans?