This paper begins with cultural and historical perspectives on the use of calculators and then examines a selection of professional writings that the calculator issue has engendered during the period 1976 to 1993. The topics covered are: (1) the calculator in mathematics instruction, (2) the calculator in standardized mathematics assessment, and (3) a sample of research on the calculator in mathematics education. The conclusion includes a discussion of the interrelationship of assessment and instruction in mathematics education. Contains 77 references. (MKR)