Then who would pay for IPVM at all if we don't charge people in the industry?
I didn't say nor imply that you should not charge for IPVM. I was just saying that there was nothing inappropriate about asking, considering that it is not unusual for other publications.
Since he is not a member, he may not be aware of how outrageously such a proposition would be viewed by those who are.
Btw, trade shows are the opposite of IPVM as vendors pay for them to sell products.
This indicates to me that I failed to get my point across in my anecdote.
What I was trying to say was that the next time I went to a trade show, I knew enough to ask if there was a free pass available.
I don't think the consultant politely asking was indicative of any moral failing on his part.