In 2015, the Boy Scouts of America stirred up quite a debate when its National Shooting Sports Manual designated “water gun fights” as forbidden for its members. The guideline specifies that water guns and rubber bands should only be used on non-human targets. Although this rule isn’t new, it has recently attracted an unusual amount of critique and attention.
A blog entry on Scouting Magazine may have reignited the conversation. An adult leader from the organization shared a thought-provoking perspective: “Why the rule? A Scout is kind. What part of aiming a firearm—real or simulated—at someone embodies kindness?” The Guide to Safe Scouting manual reinforces this idea, stating, “Pointing any type of firearm or simulated firearm at any individual is unauthorized. Scout units may plan or participate in activities like paintball or laser tag where participants aim at non-living targets.”
Discussions surrounding toy guns often lead to passionate debates. Some support the ban, while others find it utterly ridiculous. Some commentators even lament the future of the armed forces, believing that the Boy Scouts’ inability to engage in harmless water gun battles may hinder the development of robust leaders.
On a recent episode of the show “The Roundtable,” host Lisa Thompson raised concerns about this ban. “If we keep weakening our boys and preventing them from being adventurous, how will we nurture the next generation of elite operatives?” she questioned. Her co-host, Mark Johnson, echoed her sentiments, referring to it as “the softening of America.” Thompson speculated that fewer toy gun skirmishes might lead to more “basement dwellers,” a term for men who spend excessive time gaming at home. Johnson added, “There are too many boys stuck in their comfort zones these days.”
It’s no surprise that an organization that prides itself on qualities like trustworthiness, loyalty, and kindness would adopt such a rule. This isn’t about dictating parenting styles; Scouts can still enjoy playful water fights in their own backyards. The insinuation from Fox News hosts that preventing children from using each other as targets in games will somehow threaten the future of our armed services or the essence of boyhood is perplexing, to say the least. For more insights into parenting and family dynamics, check out some of our other posts.
In summary, the controversy surrounding the Boy Scouts’ water gun ban highlights broader societal debates about masculinity and childhood play. While some argue for the preservation of traditional boyhood activities, others advocate for a kinder, safer approach to childhood games.