You don't have to be a rocket scientist to operate a successful business. What you do need is common sense, a basic understanding of economic fundamentals, and the ability to recognize when you need to keep your own greed in check—something the execs at Lehman Brothers apparently didn't possess. Just check out this email passed between Lehman execs where two of the company's higher-ups—including CEO Dick Fuld—mock the idea of them forgoing their bonuses while the business struggled to keep its head above water. Responding to an email suggesting that higher-ups should skip bonuses this year, Lehman exec George H. Walker (and yes, he's related to the George W.) writes:

"I am not sure what's in the water at 605 Third Avenue today, but...I clearly have some work to do."

Unfortunately for, like, THE WORLD, the work he was referring to wasn't getting Lehman back in line, but rather making sure he got his bonus. While usually it's small business that can learn from the foibles (and sometimes successes) of big business, here's one place where entrepreneurs can teach a lesson: if a business is struggling—and struggling badly—you cut your bonuses and scale back on your salary. Most entrepreneurs even skip salaries period during the first year or two of a company's operation because it just makes sense. They realize that not only will there be a big payoff down the road once a business becomes successful, but that sabotaging the business by killing cash flow with a massive payroll is basically tantamount to sabotaging yourself. Plus aren't bonuses a reward for a job well done? While these Lehman execs didn't exactly own the company (they just acted like they did), their salaries, bonuses, and other perks most certainly depended on the long-term success of the company. So why didn't they possess the common business sense to make that connection? Blind greed? Lack of myopia? All of the above? What do you think?

Dick Fuld testifies before The Man yesterday.

Image via Dealbreaker