The problem is not really subscriptions, it's being able to enter and leave a subscription without hassle, something that is increasingly difficult these days. If you're paying for an ongoing service, then it makes sense to pay a monthly fee. But if you're paying for an app and don't expect significant long-term upgrades, then yes, a one-time purchase makes sense.
In theory, iOS implements this well by allowing you to unsubscribe with one click. In practice, it's a terrible UX. Just try finding the subscriptions page in Settings and you'll see what I mean.
Is Nautilus doing ok, since the problem a few months ago about paying writers? I've noticed lately that a lot of front-page articles are pulled from older issues, and they publish fewer articles every week. Also, I still haven't received any print issues in the mail this year. Maybe they are transitioning to a digital-only publication?
Don’t most career fields come with important knowledge you learn as a junior, but don’t actually use on a daily basis? I assume doctors learn a huge variety of things in school, but practically don’t use more more than 50% of that knowledge on the job. But having this knowledge makes you better at your job overall.
I never got a CS degree, but I wish I did. There are times I run into obscure issues where deeper knowledge of the compiler, os, etc would help me understand the problem better, or how to design my code better.
I want to add another suggestion - try a podcast like “The Daily” from NYT. It’s about 20 minutes long per episode, and covers one or two of the most important issues of the day. It’s a more human/meaningful experience for me, because you hear the voices of people who are directly affected by the news (such as the students from parkland). It adds an emotional depth, and I feel like I can stay up to date with current events without mindlessly scanning dozens of articles. The host, Michael Barbaro, is fantastic and pleasant to listen to. Give it a try!
I’ve experienced the same problem, for about six months I never received any issues. The entire time I thought there was a mail delivery issue or some other anomaly. It’s a shame because it’s a great publication.
In theory, iOS implements this well by allowing you to unsubscribe with one click. In practice, it's a terrible UX. Just try finding the subscriptions page in Settings and you'll see what I mean.