If all golf courses were "4s", would any course be considered a "4"?

[Peter Pallotta]

Discuss, if you'd like.

Peter

[Joe Hancock]

For a four to be a four, would it have four stretches of par fours where four would be a good score if nobody yells fore?

[Kyle Harris]

There is a ton of golf that can be played across 18 holes in the 280-500 yard range, given topography, of course.

[Mike_Young]

Peter,
Of course.  I just got back from a week in Phily and played Merion West again.  That is the type of course that needs to be promoted for the sake of golf.  6000 yards, simple probably rated much like what you are describing but it allows people to play and learn the game. Simple clubhouse and food.   The problem comes in when the second guy to build a "4" has to out do the first guy that built a "4" and next thing you know we are where we are today.  It is sad that the game of golf does not recognize the basics of such a course and can only focus on the "championship courses" when talking " 8's, 9's and 10's"

[Carl Rogers]

Can't there be a variety of ways to get to a "4"?  Different relative strengths, different relative shortcomings?  The problem I usually observe on the site is that there are such a huge variation of golf experiences, it is difficult to find common ground. .. and thus consensus.