This work investigates the absurdity of modern life by codifying the unwritten social laws and informal regulations that govern human interaction. Paul Dickson, a noted lexicographer and humorist, utilizes a collection of observations and reader-submitted anecdotes to construct a framework for understanding the hidden rules of contemporary society. The text argues that while formal laws are documented, the informal rules of daily existence are often more influential in shaping behavior and social expectations.

Critics often categorize this work as a lighthearted sociological study that prioritizes wit over rigorous academic methodology. Readers frequently note the accessibility of the prose, which serves as a humorous guide to navigating the complexities of everyday social interactions.