C T Russell was an accomplished businessman before his time as a religious activist. By age 12 he had begun negotiating contracts and soon was a managing partner in his father's five haberdashery and clothing stores in Pennsyvania. He would eventually sell the business and with the proceeds form a publishing corporation for the distribution of Bible-based literature.
Yet, Russell's greatest accomplishment was the pyramid structure of financial support he fashioned which has lasted far beyond his lifetime. Consider, even the original Apostles could not posthumously keep "The Way" functioning after John's death.
Russells technique was textbook: it amounted to low profit and the mass marketing of a product that everyone wanted ... health and life. Just as in ancient times, the building of such a pyramid required the sacrifice of souls, crushed under each advance and replaced by a new flock of sheep being brought to slaughter. Therefore recruitment and mortality was required for longevity.
Today, the edifice is in decay. The world has changed to improving life as it is rather than hanging one's hat on some hope of eternal bliss The glue that has held it all together for over a century has been a little money from an increasing number of contributors. Evidence now suggests that some are no longer forwarding this "chain letter" of hope.
Here are possible reasons that "tithing" is likely on the way for the "faithful":
1) The WBTS was built by distributing the printed page The demand of bound books and magazines is no longer a major player in our world. Result: Cash flow has been reduced for the WBTS.
2) Door-to-door sales has become the least effective way to reach the public. Result: less and less direct marketing is occurring ... limiting potential new membership and contributions.
3) The cost of transportation has never been higher per mile. Result: The more money used to travel in the ministry, the less available for the contribution box.
4) Russell's plan was launched in lands where the standard of living was higher such as the good old USA. Today's growth in the organization is coming from poor third world countries. Result: A greater number of members have little which to give and are actually costing the WBTS to provide services for these needy.
5) The modern Witness now realizes that they will likely live out their "golden years" in this system of things. 1975 did'nt end it all ... this generation did pass away ... more of the annointed keep popping up ... Result: the freinds are holding back some of their assets to finance tomorrow.
6) Many JWs have chosen not to have children. Result: Growth inevitably comes from within. Consider the fate of the Shakers.
In summary, Though Russell has had a good run, he built a business model that was temporary. It required a carrot on a stick at all times. There is little new under the sun at the WBTS. The new proto-type for the organization will require an obligation for all members to financially support the slave's quarters or it itself will become the ultimate "fader."