Reading this, I’m unsure exactly how Harper’s Magazine is supposed to make money. Publisher John MacArthur:

“Our readers know that our financial independence results in uncompromised, quality journalism and writing. I don’t want to take money from people of modest incomes, and I certainly don’t want to accept corporate or foundation money that, too often, comes with strings attached.”

So, he doesn’t want to take money from people of modest means because he’s an enlightened, beneficent liberal (does this include subscriptions? If you submit a copy of your most recent tax return, can you qualify for free or reduced-price magazines?). And he doesn’t want to take money from corporations or foundations (what if they just want to buy a bunch of ads?). So, he’s left with what exactly? Rich individual donations? That doesn’t always work out so hot either.

It’s no wonder that some journalists are pushing for government funding; taking money directly from your readers or advertisers is so dirty.