"In the two decades since this book was first published, excuse- making has flourished - both as a practice and as a process inviting investigation and theory. Indeed, how could it be otherwise?" So write the authors in their new introduction. But they also maintain that excuse-making is a critical element in what social psychologists refer to as "reality negotiation." Originally published by John Wiley in 1983. Praise from readers "Illuminating the strategies that prop up favorable views of self, this book is even more relevant today than when it was first published." Roy F. Baumeister, Florida State University "Excuse making is forever with us and this book still is our best guide to understanding it." Sharon Stephens Brehm, Indiana University "A true classic. It belongs on the bookshelf of anyone who wants to fully understand the subtleties of interpersonal communication." Robert B. Cialdani, Arizona State University "The best analysis of the tendency to shift blame to others. Its style, consistency, comprehensiveness, and theoretical insights are unmatched." Donelson R. Forsyth, Virginia Commonwealth University "It is great to see this classic get a fresh face. I highly recommend it." Everett L. Worthington, Virginia Commonwealth University