To make a fair comparison, and ignoring the history at CPC, would people be willing to make comparisons between CPC and Pacific Dunes if PD wasn't part of a larger resort?  Will that eventually keep it from reaching the highest levels in people's minds?  

Good obvservation and unfortunately I think it will always impact  one's perception.  Everyone always wants what they can't have, thus CPC and ANGC will always have that allure.  With ANGC it's also impossible to measure the impact of The Masters.  

If you do this comparision I think you must control for the exclusivity factor.  Thus, measure the greatest of both that are publicly accessible.  I think that would be Pacific Dunes vs. Royal Melbourne (is it?).  Then I think you've got a more fair comparison.  Having not played RM I cannot answer the question.  

The fascinating thing about this thread is that this discussion could only ever happen on GCA, given its obsession with Tom Doak. Probably has something to do with the fact he participates here.
Really, only on GCA is this even a question. Millions of golfers would take Augusta and Cypress hands down over everything Tom Doak has done and likely will ever do.
Now let me say I've played Pacific Dunes and only walked Augusta. I haven't seen anything aside from pictures of Tom's work in Australia, but I have seen some of the Good Doctor's work in both Scotland and the U.S. (though it is limited to Pasatiempo).
I loved Pacific Dunes, shot the best round of my life there in still conditions, appreciate the genius of the business around the place and Doak's amazing work.
But I'd take a round at Augusta or Cypress over it any day. Maybe that's because they are so difficult to get on and I could head to Pac Dunes tomorrow.
Time will tell, but this really isn't a contest.

Robert

Jason, is there really a top Mackenzie course that is "publicly accessible"?  Cypress Point, Augusta National, Royal Melbourne and Crystal Downs don't qualify.  What about Pasatiempo?