I too am pleased this topic has come up and for the common-sense tone of discussion.
Although this site is obviously not about access, it is manifestly a community of (up to a point) like minded people and communities grow stronger when the members do well by each other, and helping others do what they cannot do alone is obviously one such way.
Of course, as others have said, much depends on how you go about it, and opportunistic cold-calls are obviously hugely inappropriate. On other hand, I share the view of others that a well-handled approach is one that I am more than happy- indeed, keen - to receive.
My thoughts on this topic could be summarised as follows:
1 - There is nothing wrong with wanting to play the best courses in the world (it would be strange if you did not), assuming your interest extends beyond crude trophy hunting.
2 - Where I can pay to play I am more than happy to do so.
3 - You cannot play many of these courses, especially in the US, without invitation or assistance.
4 - Best of all is to be invited, but others cannot be clairvoyant about your wishes and your whereabouts, so it is reasonable to seek assistance with access provided - $64m caveat
- you do it the right way.
5 - If you are patient and in good faith, you should get there in the end!
6 - Personally, I have only had pleasure from meeting other GCAers to play golf, both as host and guest. I hope much more lies ahead!