As a current member of the Boy Scouts of America and an Eagle Scout, I was disappointed with your Editorial ("Scout's Honor," Nov. 8.) While I consider the BSA's present policy with respect to homosexual members deplorable, I believe your obvious lack of familiarity with the organization detracts from your analysis.

First, you overlook the incredible amount of good that this organization has done and will continue to do. It provides a safe environment for boys to grow up in at a time when these are few and far between. Through their network of local camps and national night adventure bases, the BSA provides an opportunity for outdoor experiences that, for many young men, would be otherwise nonexistent. To say that none of this matters because of one unfortunate policy is to miss the point.

It is worth mentioning that in spite of the supposed ban, there is still a great number of gay scouts. Furthermore, I have never met a person who felt that the Boy Scouts had taught them to "hate gays."

The notion that not donating to the BSA will produce some sort of positive change is flawed. It is a private organization, and I believe the sudden removal of support will not send them begging for Amherst College's forgiveness. Rather, it will push the BSA further into the welcoming arms of organizations that oppose the inclusion of homosexuals such as the Church of Latter Day Saints. It is possible that the decision to stop donating will work against the efforts of the many scouts and scouters working inside the BSA to change this policy.

Ross O'Connell '02