Should I Lie About the Religious Part of an Eagle Scout Board of Review if I Am an Atheist?

The Eagle Scout program, a prestigious part of the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award series for male Scouts, requires a rigorous Board of Review. This pivotal meeting often includes a discussion on the Scout Law, which encompasses a variety of expected behaviors, values, and virtues. One common area of concern arises among atheists who navigate the religious component of their board review. This article delves into this ethical dilemma, offering insights and guidance based on the Scouting principles and broader societal norms.

The Scout Law

The Scout Law states, among other things, that Scouts are trusty, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. These ideals are meant to be a guide for Scouts to live by. However, the term 'reverent' poses a particular challenge for atheists, as it calls for respect towards religious beliefs and practices.

Atheists face a dilemma when deciding whether to lie about their religious beliefs during a board of review. While the law requires Scouts to be 'reverent,' choosing to lie about one's atheism might seem like a solution to avoid being judged or failing the review. Yet, adhering to the Scout Law and maintaining personal integrity present a more viable long-term path.

Ethical Considerations

Misrepresentation and Deception are unethical practices within the Scouting community. The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) is a private organization that has specific membership requirements, one of which is a belief in a higher power. According to the BSA, members and participants are entrusting in the organization to deliver a program that aligns with these beliefs. Misrepresenting one's beliefs to pass a board of review could be seen as a breach of trust.

Personal Integrity and Trustworthiness are cornerstones of Scouting. The Scout Law emphasizes being trustworthy, which includes being honest in all aspects of life. Lying to the board of review, even to avoid a perceived negative outcome, would go against these principles. Instead, Scouts are encouraged to openly communicate their beliefs and values, even if they differ from the religious component of the program.

Communicating Your Beliefs

Many Scouts feel comfortable expressing their atheism or agnosticism. If the board of review explicitly asks about religious beliefs, it is important to answer truthfully. However, it is crucial to ensure that this honesty does not lead to unnecessary confrontation. Scouts should respect the religious beliefs of others, even if their own beliefs differ. This respect can be demonstrated through courteous and understanding communication. Additionally, many local councils and national offices have dealt with similar situations and can offer guidance on how to handle such discussions.

If you fear that your beliefs will negatively impact your board of review, it is advisable to discuss your concerns with your local council. They can provide insights on how to address the religious component of the program without compromising your values. If, after these discussions, you still feel that your beliefs are being unfairly judged, it may be appropriate to escalate the issue to the national council.

Reverence and Respect for Others

The Scout Law emphasizes the need to be reverent, which means respecting the beliefs of others. As an atheist, you can still practice this value by showing respect and understanding towards the religious beliefs of your peers. This respect might be enough to bridge the gap between your personal beliefs and the expectations of the Scouting organization. Holding your beliefs privately and demonstrating respect publicly is a way to honor the Scout Law while staying true to yourself.

Conclusion

While the possibility of misrepresenting your religious beliefs during an Eagle Scout board of review might seem appealing, it is generally not recommended. The long-term benefits of honesty, integrity, and respect outweigh the short-term inconvenience of potential rejection. Scouts who are open about their beliefs, educate others respectfully, and demonstrate their values through their actions ultimately contribute positively to the community. By adhering to the Scout Law and maintaining personal integrity, you can navigate the challenges of the board of review while staying true to your values.