It's unfortunate that a single pack or troop experience have ruined the view for some of Boy Scouts...I've been there and have seen poorly run units. However, going on 15 years being involved in scouting both as a scout and leader I can tell you that the program itself is solid. There is an entire system in place that is proven to work along with a ton of training available for leaders. Unfortunately, some packs and troops are simply unaware or have untrained leaders. Find a Cub Scout pack (1st grade-5th grade) or Boy Scout troop (6th and up) and ask them how they train their leaders and if they follow the council plan. If they do, you are unlikely to be disappointed!