Mike is right about 99% of golfers. But every once in a while an opportunity will arise. I hosted three experienced players (read over 50) this weekend on a course that has a fair amount of architectural interest. One was a 20 handicap and the other two were single digits.
The 20 said he was very intimidated to play the course. I told him not to worry, the course would be very playable for him. By the 15th hole he commented that he couldn't believe how much fun the course was. So I asked him why he thought is was fun.
Without every mentioning the word "architecture" he said, "even though I hit a weak slice, there is a way for me to play every hole. It seems like I have a decision to make on every hole. Should I go left or right, should I try to carry the bunker or go around it, should I chip the ball, putt it or lob it on the green. There are even options on the green. I am constantly thinking."
I replied, "so you are saying you need a strategy for every hole and every shot." he replied, "now that you mention it, I did need a strategy."
I asked him what he thought about the 17th hole on his home course, a par 5. He said he really liked the hole because the tee shot was very challenging. I asked him, what about the second and third shots which cover an absolutely straight, level fairway with no hazards. He replied he just tries to hit the ball as far as he can on the second shot.
I said, "what would happen if there was a cross bunker coming into the fairway between you and green?" He replied, "it would be a more interesting hole. I would have to make a decision whether to layup or carry the bunker." And the light went on. He then said, "Wow, the hole would be so much better." I told him that was the art of golf architecture.
I said now imagine how good the architect of this course is, you're a 20 and you said it was a lot of fun and the two single digits think it is very challenging. You have to be really good to design a course that is fun and playable for a 20 and challenging for better player.
Over drinks the three guys started talking about how their home course could be more interesting with several relatively minor changes.
So in hindsight, most guys could care less until there is an opening to spark their interest. In absence of such an opening, guys will walk the other way when they see you coming if you are speaking about golf architecture unsolicitedly.