Let the free market determine the real value of ESPN and FSN
That's pretty much what I said.
C'mon... economics 101 virtually guarantees that the kinds of big increases that these channels have been giving the carriers (Cable & Satellite), that the price increase ultimately goes to the subscriber.
Unfortunately, in the current situation, it is a game of hide the __________. Because the real "price" is almost always, if not ALWAYS, hidden in the "Basic Package". The subscriber has no idea how the costs really break down among the channels.
I'd guess that ESPN contributes far far more the price of a basic package, than it's share of real viewership supports.
IMHO, To truely "Let the free market determine the real value of ESPN and FSN" carriers (cable & satellite) would need to be allowed to break them out of the basic package, and let the subscriber decide if, based upon value and price, if they want to pay the price.
But, I dont believe that ESPN nor FSN would allow that to occur without a very big fight.... And a huge level of support from subscribers.