Sadly, people have become more and more willing to accept the idea that the products they purchase are only available for use for a temporary period of time. With acceptance of Product Activation [1] and DRM [2] on the rise, it is only a matter of time before the general public will be okay with paying a periodic fee to continue to use the products they purchase.

It is imperative that all consumers resist the trend toward Subscription-Based Licensing.  

For a more in-depth anaylisis of the issue, see the following Editorial from TwistedLincoln.com:  
Subscription-Based Licensing: A Tax on Both Your Houses [3]