Should Augusta National Admit Women?

Pretty straightforward question.

While I think it's time for them to come into the 21st century and allow women to become members, I don't feel people hold the organization or the tournament in low regard because they haven't.

That said, if Augusta had a policy that didn't allow minorities people would be boycotting and outraged until they overturned it.

yes, point blank its effing retarded.

Yep, even though it's not hurting the club as you said 12th, there's no reason in this day and age women shouldn't be allowed to join.

So, is it okay for any group, be they black, white, male, female, Hispanic, senior citizens, Christian, atheist, etc., etc. to say "This group is closed to any one not of the group". If you accept direct government funding, I think the answer is obviously "No". What if you accept no funding? Is it okay for political incorrect exclusive clubs to exist?

I'm not asking legally, but, from the gut -- "In this day and age" is it okay for a group of Blacks to exclude whites from a private club? Do we allow people to gather "with their own kind" - whatever that kind is? If so, why? If not, why not?

Joe, sometimes I get the impression that you like to hear yourself talk:)

What's a bit strange for me is that I don't look "down", as it were, on Augusta or it's members. I do think they are a bunch of good old boys that just want to keep things the way they are. And you know what, I can't blame them one bit or judge them. I think it's more about class in their mind than gender. I don't agree with it, but I do get it. Some clubs are simply defined by their exclusivity, prestige, and air of mystic.

It's a private club, membership by invitation. No, they shouldn't be forced to allow women.

Have to agree with Rat on this one. If a private club wants to limit membership to select people I have no issue as long as they aren't taking any public funding.

Joe, sometimes I get the impression that you like to hear yourself talk. :)

Well, no one else does, so it's up to me. Of course, it helps that I am the most interesting man I know.

As to Augusta, I got no problem with "exclusive" clubs so long as they aren't taking funds from the general public or otherwise benefitting through special perks, etc.

Have to agree with Rat on this one. If a private club wants to limit membership to select people I have no issue as long as they aren't taking any public funding.

Not to mention the kitchen at Augusta isn't THAT big, and there's only so many sandwiches that need making.

Its a private club.
They should be able to have any type of membership they want.
Its no ones place to say otherwise, especially the govt.