The ideals of Scouts BSA are spelled out in the Scout Oath, the Scout Law, the Scout Motto, and the Scout Slogan.
The Boy Scout measures himself against these ideals and continually tries to improve. The goals are high, and as he reaches for them, he has some control over what and who he becomes.
The Scout Oath (or Promise)
On my honor I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country
and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong,
mentally awake, and morally straight.
The Scout Law
A Scout is . . .
TRUSTWORTHY
Tell the truth and keep promises. People can depend on you.
LOYAL
Show that you care about your family, friends, Scout leaders, school, and country.
HELPFUL
Volunteer to help others without expecting a reward.
FRIENDLY
Be a friend to everyone, even people who are very different from you.
COURTEOUS
Be polite to everyone and always use good manners.
KIND
Treat others as you want to be treated. Never harm or kill any living thing without good reason.
OBEDIENT
Follow the rules of your family, school, and pack. Obey the laws of your community and country.
CHEERFUL
Look for the bright side of life. Cheerfully do tasks that come your way. Try to help others be happy.
THRIFTY
Work to pay your own way. Try not to be wasteful. Use time, food, supplies, and natural resources wisely.
BRAVE
Face difficult situations even when you feel afraid. Do what you think is right despite what others might be doing or saying.
CLEAN
Keep your body and mind fit. Help keep your home and community clean.
REVERENT
Be reverent toward God. Be faithful in your religious duties. Respect the beliefs of others.
The Scout Motto
Be Prepared
The Scout Slogan
Do a Good Turn Daily
The Outdoor Code
As an American, I will do my best to —
BE CLEAN in my outdoor manners.
BE CAREFUL with fire.
BE CONSIDERATE in the outdoors.
and
BE CONSERVATION-MINDED.