Book excerpt: First published in 1990, The World Television Industry uses economic analysis to examine recent changes in the television industry. It uses the theory of public good and a model of industrial organization to identify the major forces determining the nature of the television product in the late twentieth century. The forces of supply and demand for an unusual product - often requiring a 'double' sale, to a consumer and to an advertiser - are examined, as are alternative methods of financing. The all-pervading role of government is discussed at length.