If thinking only about America's best courses, the ranking I like is Golfweek's. Here's a link:
http://www.golfweek.com/americasbest/

I like it that they have two categories: classic and modern. Helps to reduce the "apples and oranges" problem. Also, their rating criteria help me think about the humble courses I play. The criteria I especially like are:

1. Ease and intimacy of routing
The extent to which the sequence of holes follows natural contours and unfolds in an unforced manner.

2A. Integrity of original design (Classic)
The extent to which subsequent changes are compatible with the original design and enhance the course rather than undermine or weaken it.

2B. Quality of feature shaping (Modern)
The extent to which the land’s features have been enhanced though earthmoving and shaping to form a landscape that suits the game and has aesthetic/thematic coherence.

3. Natural setting and overall land plan
Quality and aesthetic relationship of golf course, clubhouse, cart paths and other facility features to surrounding structures and native scenery.

9. Landscape and tree management
The extent to which trees and any floral features complement or enhance rather than impose and intrude upon the ground features, and the playing options of the course.

10. “Walk in the park” test
The degree to which the course ultimately is worth spending a half-day on as a compelling outdoor experience.

Their current top courses:

Classic category
1. Pine Valley
2. Cypress Point
3. Shinnecock Hills
4. Augusta National
5. Pebble Beach

Modern category
1. Sand Hills Golf Club
2. Pacific Dunes
3. Bandon Dunes
4. Whistling Straits
5. Pete Dye Club

I'll see if I can find something similar regarding "best in the world."