The reinterpretation of the octet rule on the basis of the results of ab Initio calculations according to which all molecules, including so-called hypervalent molecules, obey the rule is criticized. It is argued that, nevertheless, hypervalence is not a useful concept and is better replaced by the octet rule as proposed by Lewis and a corresponding duodecet rule for third- and fourth-period elements ei en though there are a few exceptions to these rules.