Along the way, they acquired essential tools of inquiry, like how to devise good methods for gathering various kinds of data.

FORBES: A Curiosity-Driven Education

Goldman Sachs had to put together a nine-page memo to the Financial Inquiry Commission earlier this year to explain its methods for the valuations of AIG-insured securities that resulted in Goldman making liquidity-draining capital calls on AIG.

FORBES: Will SEC's Settlement In Valuation Case Be Part Of A Trend?

Some of the inquiry will be held in secret to protect intelligence sources and methods.

BBC: Former MI5 head: Torture is 'wrong and never justified'