If a person can practice Buddhism without taking refuge, I will support that person's decision. But there is a problem. I can give you the example of a man who doesn't have a degree at all, but he is a university professor. Many Ph.D. candidates study with him. But most people can't do it.
Most people have to go to school.
In Tainan this time, Master Sheng-yen accepted about 1,200 new disciples in a public ceremony. Taking refuge in the Three Jewels, the new disciples took a collective oath to believe in Buddha and obey the precepts of avoiding killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and drinking alcohol. They then stood in line to give red envelopes filled with money to Faku Shan volunteers and accept a necklace as a sign of entry into the religion. In traditional Buddhism, new disciples receive a dharma name. With so many people taking refuge, however, that custom was no longer practical.