> That would compromise the neutrality of the site.
So what? Competitors exist also. Brick and mortar stores exist and nobody complains that they aren't "neutral".
> Also not everyone who want to publish information about stuff wants to run a freaking retail business to support the publishing/hosting.
They can continue then with their garbage ads, if they so please. But for those who aim to make more money than paying for their hosting, I think selling some product or service is better for their bottom line and for the web at large, than relying on ads. Strictly talking about people who publish online with the goal of making money.
So what? Competitors exist also. Brick and mortar stores exist and nobody complains that they aren't "neutral".
> Also not everyone who want to publish information about stuff wants to run a freaking retail business to support the publishing/hosting.
They can continue then with their garbage ads, if they so please. But for those who aim to make more money than paying for their hosting, I think selling some product or service is better for their bottom line and for the web at large, than relying on ads. Strictly talking about people who publish online with the goal of making money.