@ NSF
Very well expressed view of BALPA necessity for Pilots life!
I admire your "taking time to" write down those arguments. I admit, english not my mothertongue, my verbal discussion on the flight line is exactly the same direction.
I still believe after long discussions with freeloaders, that most of them just do not want to spend the money on BALPA fees.
Latest as a Captain the financial situation should allow these expenses!
My two "Euro" cents!