<p>It is not the paper which is expensive. The publishers advertising, marketing and profits account for much of the cost and don't change whether the book is an ebook or hardcopy. Personally, I have found hardcopy books much easier to read and study. I suspect the publishing industry is having a hard time trying to decide what to do for the future. An ebook is very easy to copy. I am sure publishers look at the recording industry and are concerned.</p>
<p>I think some publishers have found the approach that will work in the future. My D has a big, fat and expensive physics text. Part of the course involves logging on to the publishers webpage. Problem sets and reviews are done online. With time, I suspect more of the content will transfer to the online learning. There certainly has been a lot of talk about replacing today's lecture format with online learning. Fewer teachers, less brick and mortar and lower costs for attending college.</p>