The argument that most providers make against ala carte programing is that not enough people would chose the smaller networks such as BET, etc. for them to stay in business. So we subside them by forced buying of the expensive packages. This, of course, is really just an excuse and a money grab but it makes the providers look like they actually care. It will not change anytime in the near future as the Cable/Satellite providers are some of the largest donators to Congress and also have a huge number of paid lobbyists in DC.