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You know it IS a generalization to say a name change constitutes a large difference in programming...but in some instances the contrast between what bringing new guys in to your fraternity is INTENDED to do...and what some GLO chapters have as pointless tasks known as "traditions" REALLY do is frightening.
I think that we would all agree that the period before initiation, no matter what you call it, is really supposed to education these men and women into what the organization is about (history, values, purpose, opportunities, standards) and how to successfully operate it on their own once they become the leadership as well as give them a sense of duty to that organization (brotherhood and sisterhood) so that they find meaning in taking the leadership roles on in the future.
My chapter has always said that you cannot build good Delts, and theirfore good men, by tearing them down first.
While there are some aspects of the "pledge" column that still have value in the education of future brothers and sisters, it is HOW GLO's are going about trying to "teach" them these points that becomes the problem. You can still emphasize "duty to the group" without secluding pledges in their own activities, or by putting them through activites that can be considered hazing because their participation is "loyalty" to the group.
Although some may see it as merely a name change, sometimes that can provide the spark needed to bring about a change in the feeling or attitude towards something. (kind of a marketing tactic)
If you give something dignity and respect from the outside...then it drives you to work towards making sure it fulfills that dignity and respect from the inside. I think that would force us to make our "pledge programs" live up to their new titles and ensure that what they are doing really falls under the purpose we claim they have and frankly should have.
It's the same idea behind "getting back to our foundations" if we are constantly reminded of the higher things our GLO's claim to aspire to, provide, or reflect, it drives us to actually live up to them. That's why nearly all GLO's have bylaws that require Ritual education programs even for active members and regular performance of their Ritual during "formal chapters"...it's to act as a regular reminder of our values, purposes, opportunities, standards, etc. so that we work to live up to them.
I say a small change in how we talk about our programs for "pledges" or "new members" along with a real look at the philosophy behind their purpose will lead to better results not only in our new initiates, but also in our organizations as a whole.
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