To me it's really a symptom of the failure of online game to actually realize the player-based economy that works. Often, gamers find themselves frustrated that they can't progress in the game, due to the lack of funds, and there seems to be no presented gameplay method for resolving the issue. Other people figure out the loopholes in the game play, and have the time to either sit and farm away, or have the specific tradeskill whatsit that everyone will pay for.

Secondly, it's a symptom of a "gear based" progression. Now, I'm not sure if EveOnline is gear based (as I've never played it) but I suspect that if there's money, there's stuff to buy.

Anyway, just my opinion. It's often less frustrating for a player to part with some cash than it is to try to run around and find loopholes in a game in order for them to be successful. The alternative is to stop playing, which is also a good choice, but many players would rather pay someone else for their time, get the cash they need, then play the game on their own terms.