Author Bill Boushka’s Do Ask, Do Tell blends memoir, history, and political philosophy into one narrative

In his introductory pages, Boushka discusses his concerns about overreliance on government for personal fulfillment and other issues. He then moves generally chronologically throughout his life.

Boushka is expelled from the College of William and Mary in 1961 for discussing his fantasies about men with his peers and for confessing to the dean that he considers himself a “latent homosexual.” He finishes university elsewhere and participates in a National Institutes of Health study for students with “difficulties adjusting to college.”

He later serves in the military during Vietnam, and afterwards participates in self-help and political groups. He details how Gays and Lesbians for Individual Liberty, an organization he belongs to, tries to repeal the longstanding ban on homosexuals in the military and the political process that led to “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell.” And he proposes a right to privacy amendment to help homosexuals with employment issues and encourages personal responsibility.

Boushka seems like an intelligent person, but one with strong opinions and difficulty connecting with others. For example, during his military service, he looks down on many of the uneducated, provincial-thinking soldiers. And as a single, childless man, he resents having to support, through taxes, straight families.

The author makes compelling points (e.g. objecting to the military’s intrusion into its members’ personal lives). However, the book is so dense—with a confusing whirl of references to psychology, sociology, science, and creativity—that it’s often difficult to follow his arguments.

Additionally, the narrative ends in the late ‘90s; it would be helpful to know if Don’t Ask Don’t Tell’s repeal and the subsequent technological and political changes have altered Boushka’s perspective. Additionally, some words are missing or run together.

The book’s dense nature will deter many, although readers interested in privacy, society’s view of homosexuals, the military, and the responsibilities of government versus individuals will find food for thought here.

Also available as an ebook.