A realistic assessment of the successes of the existing boot camps is presented in terms of the goals they have set for themselves in deterrence, rehabilitation, punishment, incapacitation, prevention of overcrowding, and decrease in cost. The future of boot camps is discussed in relation to new perspectives on thinking about time, therapy, and punishments. Tactics are suggested for shock sentences and other actions in the development of boot camp programs. Arguments are presented for the positive, if limited, role boot camps can have among sentencing options particularly in the reduction of recidivism through provision of post-shock services. The boot camp experience may also serve as the starting point for a new conception of time which would allow the goals of punishment and rehabilitation to be considered separately. 54 notes