Insofar as correctional objectives aim at general deterrence and incapacitation of dangerous offenders, recidivism cannot measure the effectiveness of the system. Used as a criterion for assessing effectiveness of specific rehabilitation or intimidation goals, the measure lacks uniform definition. Recidivism has been variously assessed through statistics on rearrest, reconviction, reincarceration, and revocation of supervised liberty. Furthermore, such studies ignore the possibility that prison conditions may be producing recidivism rather than contributing to its decline. Indeed, the very concept of criminal offense is one definable only with reference to the existence of the criminal justice system. Present correctional policies should not be evaluated for their questionable ability to reduce crime. To cope with the social problem of widespread and repetitive criminality, broader changes are required in the social structure itself and the policies by which crime is defined. The role of the correctional system must be curtailed to limit its range and negative effects upon those who encounter it. The Council of Europe has proposed significant recommendations to this effect. Tabular data and 29 references are given.