> The best way to keep people honest is to take the profit out of everything.
Remove profit (at a personal or corporate level) and you have removed the incentive to create a worthwhile product.
> This thread exemplifies the need for a resource-based economy.
No, this thread exemplifies the need for a good legal team when your publisher tries to screw you over. Sad to say it, but it is true and a not-uncommon experience in the development field.