To the Editor:
It has been my impression that many people who are supporting the moose as the new Dartmouth mascot are doing so because they think that the moose would be a "cute" mascot. This is a terrible reason to support a mascot. Mascots should not be cute.
Mascots serve two purposes: to inspire the players and fans, and to intimidate the opponent. The moose fails on both counts. First, the moose is an uninspiring, if not pathetic, creature. What will a player say to psych him or herself up for competition? "I am a moose. I am a slow, lumbering beast, most commonly seen in petting zoos, and routinely hit by cars." A mascot should be a vicious predator, not a docile vegetarian.
Furthermore, who is intimidated by moose? Moose pose absolutely no threat to anyone. Opponents will come to Hanover with one thought on their minds: moose hunting. What Ivy League locker room won't have their very own moose head hanging from the wall?
Some will argue that the moose is quintessentially Dartmouth. What about the moose resembles Dartmouth? The fact that both moose and Dartmouth students think cars will stop for them when they cross the road? The moose is a symbol of sluggishness and stupidity (Let's not forget who was the dumber half of Rocky and Bullwinkle). These are not traits Dartmouth wants to be associated with.
When the debate for a new mascot arises, leave out the moose and remember that no mascot at all is better than an embarrassing mascot.
