Frankly, I think giving .5 points is a hell of a lot ballsier than the limiting 10 point system where one isn't forced to choose between courses that are close in quality. If I had my way, I'd break it down to .25 gradations.
So any comments about "growing a pair" are misdirected and actually a safe harbor for the timid.
For instance, I believe Pacific Dunes is a better course than Friar's Head.
I think PD is close to a 10..probably a 9.75.
I don't think Friar's Head reaches that level...it's probably a 9.5.
But, in a 10 point system, I'd probably end up giving them both a 10, which as I mentioned, lets us all wimp out a bit.