Bingo! When we apply through "dead" links, the bloggers don't get a referral, which takes money out of their pocket, and makes their referral links much less valuable. Of course Rick brought it up to them, he wants his share. The more dead links out there, the less he makes. Pretty simple.

Anyone who thinks the mainstream bloggers are in this game for anyone but themselves is being foolish.

I personally find several of the mainstream blogs quite valuable, and read them daily, but I also understand their motivation...cash, points, and perks...for themselves. I find nothing wrong with that. If I was well spoken/written and motivated, I'd consider as a pretty exciting way to make a living.