Now revised and updated with new aphorisms! Reader beware: This book contains material that disparages cherished beliefs, opinions and institutions including political and religious ones. While some readers may find that material refreshingly irreverent, others may find it offensive. The aphorism quoted on the cover, Patriotism, piety and chastity are all much overrated virtues, offers a relatively mild example. Some of the aphorisms offer potentially even more offensive material, so proceed with caution. Here are a few examples of Mr. Greene's aphorisms: Sex wouldn't be nearly so interesting if it weren't so widely forbidden. The truly strong are those who aren't driven by the need to prove their strength. Lawyers, actors and politicians must fool others. In the process they often fool themselves. We tend to forget that not all mothers are saints, nor all soldiers heroes. The most important measure of civilization is compassion, not technology, culture, sophisticated institutions, power or the gross national product.