Economics and regulation of broadcasting

Abstract

Broadcasting is a key sector in modern society, not only economically but, more than most industries, culturally, socially and politically. Correspondingly it is a sector that is more than most subject to government regulation. It is also a sector that is more than most linked to the digital revolution in technology at the core of the “new global knowledge economy”. It is therefore an area of great interest. The economics of broadcasting focuses on the nature of broadcasting markets and the nature government involvement in those markets. The markets are primarily based on demand for broadcasting programs and are heavily influenced by the technology of program delivery. They are also profoundly influenced by y government intervention in these markets, including involvement for non-economic reasons.