It is noted that some of the debate on this topic has been reduced to the level of irrelevant arguments and quotations taken completely out of context. For example, some of those who apparently prefer to have sentences determined largely on the basis of rehabilitation have selectively quoted Robert Martinson in such a manner that ideas are attributed to him which do not reflect what he actually wrote. It is suggested that the debate should return to two separate questions: the principles that we feel should guide a judge's sentencing decisions and the providing of helpful programmes to sentenced offenders.