The author attempts to articulate some of the negative aspects of commercial television as an aid to Bhutanese policy formation on the new medium (television was officially introduced to Bhutan in 1998). Television, according to the article, is effective at eroding social interaction at very basic levels. It also relentlessly works to persuade the public to consume products, often to the psychological detriment of the viewer. Considering these factors, the author speculates on the effect television may have on Bhutan's stated development goal of increasing Gross National Happiness.