Umm so can we all just agree there is a certain group of people that will buy whatever Steve tells them they need and hype it for him endlessly?
I think the word you're looking for is "consumers."
The answer to the submission's query is so simple that it's mind-boggling that folks at the NYT and elsewhere haven't even considered it. Who will control the cost of the NYT on digital readers? The Consumer.
If iPad/Nook/Kindle/netbook/etc users aren't willing to pay the price for the product, the Times will have to bring the price down until enough people are willing to pay.
This is an ongoing problem with print media. They think they're still playing in the arena they've been in for the last 100 years. It ain't so, and the awakening will be a rude one for them.
I'm working for a leading worldwide business software provider in their SaaS division. I'm 35. I'm the youngest person on the team. While I have no doubt that ageism exists in IT, I'm very encouraged that the folks I work with are dedicated geeks of varying ages. This is also the best job I've ever had.
Go for the degree and keep a positive attitude.
New York... when civilization falls apart, remember, we were way ahead of you. - David Letterman