This book investigates the fallibility of human expertise by cataloging a vast collection of erroneous predictions, miscalculations, and misguided statements made by prominent figures throughout history. The authors, Christopher Navasky and Victor Cerf, compile a wide array of historical blunders across diverse fields such as politics, science, and economics to demonstrate that even the most credentialed authorities are frequently incorrect. By framing these failures as a recurring pattern rather than isolated incidents, the text challenges the reader to maintain a healthy skepticism toward authoritative pronouncements.

This work serves as a lighthearted yet pointed examination of the limitations inherent in human foresight and institutional expertise. The text provides a dense, entertaining catalog of errors that invites readers to reconsider the weight they place on the opinions of self-proclaimed authorities.