I think we’re in total agreement that the right subscription model might work – but the offering has to be, as you mention, more valuable than and differentiated from the broadcast offering than it is today. I really like the specifics you mention.

It’s a good point about torrent too, I don’t think they are categorically abused and TV is certainly the most legit use.

For the most part, I agree with everything you’ve said (though I think there are some blurry lines with torrent – what if you’ve already watched, say, the latest episode of Fringe, but you want an archive of the season? How is torrenting the ep the next day different from recording to VCR back when?).

I think the final analysis, though, will depend on what form this subscription model takes.

In my opinion, if its something you can watch FOR FREE over the air or on another site (see all NBC, ABC, FOX, Comedy Central et al content), you’re basically sticking the gun to your head burying it behind a pay wall.

I would fully support a (reasonable) subscription model if it meant 1) access to all past episodes of shows, not just the last five 2) access to HBO, Discovery, and other stuff not on Hulu now, 3) early viewing…so you could watch the Daily Show as it airs, not the following morning.

In other words, I think the subscription model has to come with added value over what the site offers now, otherwise it’s just a giant middle finger to users.