Homework; To Give or Not To Give

I have been giving a great deal of thought to homework lately. I have now been teaching a long time and do not see any academic advantage to giving homework. When you think about it, the 'smart' kids or 'high-achievers' are going to finish their work before leaving the classroom (or at lunch!). On the other hand, the students who habitually do not do their homework, never will. Does it do either them or me good to keep them from socialising to complete it? I think it punishes me more. Therefore, I think that next year, I am going to make a conscious effort not to give much homework. Perhaps, if I create really meaningful assignments, it will miraculously appear in my inbox anyways! Besides, I don't think the parents know how to do it anymore!