I really don't want to do it and face being ostracized by the rest of his directs.

I shouldn't have to buy my boss anything. hell he makes more $ than I do.

I don't know who started the tradition of buying the boss a gift - but i am betting it was someone trying to suckup

first of all, no you shouldn't have to buy your boss something. If you want to give then give. Second $50 per person is a little extreme.

Especially when he has 6 directs.

I have decided, I'm not giving. He will get a Christmas card from me like everyone else.

that is very wrong, he would get $50 in monopoly money.. unless he was personally giving out $150 bonuses..

not a chance would my boss receive $50 from me for a Christmas present, just like he wouldn't spend $50 on me