I think John has a point. The dynamics will change, I can't see how that can be denied. There is a difference in attitude between using a facility for free and actually contributing. The pledge drive is aimed at increasing the percentage of contributers, and so must bring a shift in general attitude of mudcatters.
Of course it is a good thing to be aiming to provide financial stability for Mudcat & I don't think anyone could argue that it shouldn't be done, neither is anyone questioning the motives of contributers - but it is perfectly natural to be thinking about the issues and contemplating what that shift might bring.
I don't think John is saying that everyone is going to suddenly become a control freak - and I don't think he is feeling an outsider either. I think he is just thinking around the issues & posing some rational questions.
Time will tell.

Kris