The hypothesis advanced in this issue of CELLULOSE Springer by Bjorn Lindman, which asserts that the solubility or insolubility characteristics of cellulose are significantly based upon amphiphilic and hydrophobic molecular interactions, is debated by cellulose scientists with a wide range of experiences representing a variety of scientific disciplines. The hypothesis is based on the consideration of some fundamental polymer physicochemical principles and some widely recognized inconsistencies in behavior. The assertion that little-recognized (or under-estimated) hydrophobic interactions have been the reason for a tardy development of cellulose solvents provides the platform for a debate in the hope that new scientific endeavors are stimulated on this important topic.