When conducting research with news organizations for the MMC report, one obvious trend is the demographic consumer split of printed newpapers. Most folks over the age of 40 want to hold the printed word in their hands.  They talk about it as a 'ritual'. Turning the pages is something they love to do.  Going on-line for news seems like they are betraying a deeply held religion.

Contrast that notion with the younger demographic who largely view the newspaper as a waste of the world's resources.  Why cut trees when I can get the same info on-line? And BTW - it's a boatload cheaper too. Why pay for something I can get for free? 

I find this generational split an interesting one.  In effect, subscribers are paying for a ritual.  The behavioral 'switching costs' of holding the newspaper in your hands to viewing the same information on a screen are so high, individuals are willing to pay a premium for it.  And the good news for newspapers is that the 40+ demographic will be around for a long time to come.