Because the technology is available now, and the practice is happening now, reactionary tactics from publishers need to be changed rapidly to prevent the same disaster that struck the big three television networks. The advent of cable and VCRs radically changed both market share or viewer share and revenues. All it will take is a little technical experience and, voila. I repeat my warning. And ultimately tighter revenue streams for traditional publishers.
Information is viewed by individuals as a public good.
If pricing and availability make information elitist, the tools exist to challenge and gut traditional distribution and pricing methods. Many individuals are using them already. In addition to the book intro. I just mentioned, I read today on one list full text of an editorial from a student newspaper. Once again, it's an isolated incident, but I believe it is the future.