Can’t remember when I’ve seen such a thing anywhere else, what’s the straight dope? Maybe I’m missing something here.
Subscriptions at the Dope can only be paid for via credit card or PayPal.
Not everyone has access to one or the other for a variety of reasons.
There’s also people in different countries where this kind of transaction is troublesome, again for a variety of reasons.
A lot of the requests in the subscription thread are from people who need someone to do the actual transaction for them and they will reimburse that kind and considerate Doper. Some send checks or money orders – neither of which is accepted by the Reader – others send gifts in kind.
You can check out the old thread used in subscription times past to see some of the items of exchange/barter that have been employed: http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showthread.php?t=245878
And there are people who flat can’t afford the subscription fee, again, for any number of reasons. The Straight Dope community decided that lack of finances would not be a bar to membership. There are many generous Dopers who outright subsidize the subscriptions of other people.
It’s a beautiful thing to see, all the way around.
TubaDiva
If you would like to help someone with their subscription at the Straight Dope, or you need help yourself, please go here:
Straight Dope Subscription Help 2006
TubaDiva
And one of the many reasons why I really love this board.