There’s plenty of stuff on the web about Mason’s not all of it true. Sort through some of the founders of Modern Freemasonry and quotes on their beliefs and then check out the authenticity for yourself - not all BBQ’s and Charity I am afraid.
My Uncle (a Policeman in Britain) had a fair bit of trouble with this boys club - he was the youngest ever inspector in his local Constabulary. Once he hit that level he was approached to join the Lodge. He didn’t and never rose above the position he had gained even after 25 years in the force. He took an active lead in trying to get others promoted who also would not join the Lodge with only very limited success. He retired about ten years ago.
I was talking with some of his colleagues when i was in England about 6 years ago and they all stated that you would not rise above a certain position if you didn’t join up. The British Legal system in particular seems to be rife with this sort of ‘networking’. It seems that fellow Freemasons back each other up and can be relied upon if things go a bit belly up in the job.
Mel
Same with the establishment of Rhodes Scholars.