Nothing ever is which is why I wrote the answer to "when revenue" is: it depends. I wrote this post because I talked to enough people who thought companies not charging was completely irrational. I believe most people, including politicians, are rational actors you've just got to understand their motivations and goals.

Only economics folk think that people are generally rational actors. Try talking to some neurologists or psychologists and see what they think of that point of view, once they have finally stopped laughing.

Of course, but look at the concept of "loss leaders" in retail. Or even in gaming, where the manufacturers lose money on the systems, but make it back on licensing and game purchases. Isn't it helpful to understand when a counterintuitive strategy is a good option?