[MRBAA]

You are correct -- publishers do provide many valuable services. But virtually all of the logistical and legal services they provide can be replaced for a price. I still think the distribution network is the one thing that can't be bought unless you are a celebrity and have a viable platform from which to publicize your book. It seems to me that what happens in those cases is that publishers pay the author a higher advance and royalty rate, essentially recognizing that they are competing against the celebrities ability to self-publish or purchase certain parts of the services they provide ala carte.