It's hard to unravel our own biographies and beliefs. We need a good dose of self-knowledge, an ability to acknowledge experiences and reflect on their impact. Indeed, it's the one way we can be enlightened by the view from somewhere, not blinded by it.

In the end, Justice Thomas, the man who wants to overturn his own past, seems trapped in it. Justice O'Connor has accepted the past and moved on. He's still uncomfortable in his seat. She has made the robe her own - and made affirmative action our own.[...]