Poll: Any Merit?
Submitted by
on Mon, 08/03/2009 at 11:49pm.
Do you believe the Boy Scouts of America should offer a 'Chess Merit Badge'?
Your thoughts?
Second Update: October 11, 2009
Okay, we don't have any comments or support at this idea as yet. What would be the reason(s) for opposing a Chess Merit Badge??? Or, what are your reasons for not wanting to express your opinion? Just don't care? (Can't believe that.)
Update: September 9, 2009
I'm curious at the lack of feedback on this topic to date. I was hoping our chess.com players would want to express their approval toward an effort to provide an opportunity for Scouts to learn one of the world's most popular games/sports.
I would think that the BSA would want to use chess as an exercise in decision-making skills that would contribute toward intellectual growth, as well as toward leadership training for Scouts, as do other merit badges.
Most of us know that chess has been a long-time tradition among famous leaders and celebrities the world over. The game is often credited to stimulate thinking processes and is often recommended by medical therapists as an excellent game to assist in recovery for stroke victims and other cases. I've been told that studies have shown chess helps students acquire good concentration skills as well as a variety of other beneficial attributes that are in line with Scouting goals of providing good learning experiences.
I am hoping this posting will somehow have a positive influence to gather support to promote our game of chess where it can provide a significant contribution. I believe that contribution could benefit our U.S. Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, alike, and those around the world. I'm sure there are other players out there who are as grateful for the game of chess to be in their lives, as I have been for it to have been a part of mine. If so, I'll hope we hear from you.
Thank you.