I didn't recall the specific thread but it sounds like something I would defend, and want to thank Stephen for thanking me....
Without being architect specific, there probably could be a thread about the ethics (if any apply) to golf course criticism.
I've always said the good news about Golf course architecture is that stands along with the other fine arts of architecture, landscape architecture, fine dining, theatre, etc. in being considered important enough to warrant its own critics, lists, rankings, and even coffee table books and monthly magazines.
The bad news is, if you have your own critics, you are likely to receive......criticism......and, lots of it.
I know most of the gca's and they do vary widely on how well they take it. I am generalizing here, but I think most wonder about the validity of the amateur architects found on various social media sites like this one, who really don't know what they are saying, but say it anyway. If a Whitten or Klein says something wild, there can be consequences. There really aren't for anyone posting here, unless they go so far over the top that some architect or contractor gets made enough to file a lawsuit.