The Royal and Ancient, often called the R&A, is the rule-making body in golf for most of the world, the international equivalent of the USGA. A few weeks ago the R&A announced a complete ban on cellphones among spectators at the British Open Championship and all future Ryder Cup events outside the US. Apparently there were complaints from players at last years Open Championship about spectators gabbing on their cellphones. (poor babies)
Have you ever played golf and it was completely quiet on the course, I don't think so. I have played with people who don't have the first clue about golf etiquette whether it's talking on the phone or just talking in general. Is it really necessary for complete silence to perform, I think not. I don't think cellphones should be banned altogether. Turn it off and throw it your bag when playing and in your pocket when watching. I personnally like knowing I have some means to communicate in case of an emergency.
I have played with people that hold up the game because of talking on the damn thing but believe me when they are done their peers have let them know not to do it again or play with someone else. Set some rules, break the rules you're gone, but don't ban them.
