Book excerpt: This book is a collection of Societal Insanities that could be described as idiotic systems, customs and practices; accepted mythologies and conventional wisdom; governmental and business vices stemming from massive egos and out-of-control greed plus stupidity, hypocrisy, unethical behavior and declining integrity everywhere. The chapters are seasoned with occasional humor, profanities and, some would say, obscenities. But thats not true, according to the author (see Chapter Thirty-One). This book could be considered tame compared to books by George Carlin, the brilliant philosopher/comedian, however his fans would probably like it. At the end of each chapter where it is appropriate, the old sage (thats the authors role in this book) provides a SAGE SOLUTION to the problem a concept for change that could possibly lead to a workable plan. It would require experts in all aspects of the problem to work together in a spirit of cooperation, using their experience, intelligence and WISDOM. Yes, thats a tall order, but something must be done to put this country back on the right track. And the people in Washington who are supposed to be solving our domestic and international problems should sit down together, put their political doctrines aside, quit trying to win their stupid partisan war and concentrate on saving this country! Thirty-four of the thirty-eight chapters in this book are about different societal insanities, so you could start with the Foreword and read straight through, or you could look at the Table Of Contents, select a chapter with subject matter that interests you and read the complete book in the order you prefer. However, for better understanding of any chapter, be sure to read the Foreword and Chapter One before reading other chapters.