Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"Commanding Heights: The Battle for the World Economy," 9 p.m., PBS. For generations people felt helpless against economic fluctuations. Then an English economist said governments should spend freely during recession. His views dominated for decades. But another economist insisted such actions would bring disaster. In the 1980s his views caught on. This show looks at the complex 20th-century economy.

Of Local Note

"Backstage at the Merrie Monarch Festival," 7 p.m., ABC. KITV 4 news anchor Paula Akana profiles three halau as they prepare for this weekend's competition.