The heart of the issue is if it would hurt Masonry or help it. Isn't one of the principles of Masonry about brotherly friendship? How is a candidate suppose to fold himself into a group of men when he can simply memorize the book and come back to take his proficiency? It's part of the mystery, and frankly, rather enjoyable.
I can think of all sorts of excuses for candidates, as a general rule, to have the book, but none of them seem to ultimately benefit Freemasonry.
I can see lots of great people that can do lots of great things, and be great for Freemasonry. But if they cannot or will not spend the time with a brother to learn the material, perhaps, Masonry isn't for them. I don't know. Is that too harsh?
Now, MMs owning the book is a completely separate idea.
I can think of all sorts of excuses for candidates, as a general rule, to have the book, but none of them seem to ultimately benefit Freemasonry.
I can see lots of great people that can do lots of great things, and be great for Freemasonry. But if they cannot or will not spend the time with a brother to learn the material, perhaps, Masonry isn't for them. I don't know. Is that too harsh?
Now, MMs owning the book is a completely separate idea.