I feel like just saying my peace on this and then leaving it to be interpreted how it will, so here goes:
Contributing $25 isn't going to be some orgasmic experience where you experience something amazing. The perks that come with it are merely a small benefit that come as a thank-you from Arn. It's sort of like donating to charity (not that MR is a charity). You give because you feel it's the right thing to do, not because you're going to save a lot of money on your taxes.
The same kind of logic should apply here. The little perks are nice, but they certainly aren't why one contributes. I think we (as in most of us who contribute) do so because we like this forum for various reasons (we've gotten help here, we like the people, etc) and simply want to render what assistance we can.
If you think about contributing in that way, it seems less like an admission ticket and more like a community donation, which is how it's meant to be. The minor perks (like the title and the private forums) certainly are nice, but they aren't the sole reason why I contribute (and I gather that most demis would agree with me on this).
Or, if it helps, think of MR's demi donation as a magazine subscription. Considering how much time I waste spend here, I think it's a real bargain!😀
[/my thoughts]