I think one problem is that people tend to elevate the judiciary into a higher position than it has. Scotus only pronounces, opines, or declares. There are a litany of social pressures upon it, including games played by congress, the executive, the states, and even the lower courts. What it can decide or get away with deciding is quite limited.

I think our education system has lead people up believe otherwise by misinforming students about the Civil rights era.

It's really the weakest of the branches.