In Joseph Heller's novel "Catch-22," the protagonist grapples with the concept of a paradoxical rule that governs the lives of soldiers. Although the main character is certain that this rule, known as Catch-22, is merely an illusion, its power lies in the widespread belief in its existence. This pervasive acceptance creates a formidable obstacle that cannot be easily challenged or dismissed.

The real issue is the lack of a tangible element to confront or argue against. The absence of a concrete definition or a specific target leaves individuals powerless, as they cannot direct their frustrations or criticisms towards something tangible. This reflects a deeper commentary on the arbitrary nature of rules and the impact of collective belief on individual actions and thoughts.