Catch 22, by Joseph Heller, is a critique of the society that we live
             in. Whoever is proud of what we have advanced to, and is unwilling to look
             at it in a negative light, would find this book very subversive. It
             threatens and criticizes the way of living of most who pride themselves in
             living a modern life. Heller shows through the ridiculousness of war how
             misguided much of modern society has become, in spite of all our so called
             civilized advancement. Some will find this interesting, thought provoking
             and enjoy this book. Others will take it as a direct threat and insult to
             all the work they have done. From the very beginning, Heller shows some
             of the most popular ideas and values of the day in a negative, questioning
             light. In particular, he shows the negative consequences of conformity and
             highlights individuality as a way to survive. He wants us to recognize
             how one is controlled and stifled by society. The leading character in
             this novel, addressing what has gone wrong with society, is Yossarian. He
             is the only one who recognizes the full craziness of what everyone is
             living for: wealth, false happiness, society's approval, etc. He is one of
             the few who tries to fight the power and elitism that have become so
             sought after in America. Throughout the novel, he tries to find a way to
             live a fuller life as a real human individual. He looks to many of the
             other characters in the book for help but only finds unsatisfactory
             answers. Each of the characters in Yossarian's life at the base shows
             the reader one more example of how bad society has become. Clavinger tries
             to live life by reasoning. He looks for a reason in everything. In
             constantly looking for a reason why, he never enjoys life to it fullest.
             As further proof that this life leads nowhere, he is shot down and killed,
             certainly not an event with a rational explanation. Major Major is the
             person who obeys everyone, alwa...