In Principle

"In Principle" was a show aired on the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) in 2018. While its lifetime was relatively brief – the show only ran for a total of eight episodes – it garnered attention for its unique approach to political talk show communication and its charismatic hosts.

The idea behind "In Principle" was to create a conversational forum where contemporary and sometimes controversial issues were discussed from various viewpoints, giving the audience a broader perspective on the problems and solutions conveyed by prominent politicians, intellectuals, and public figures. The show’s interactive dialogue format went beyond typical political discourse, addressing not just the politics but the principles underlying them.

Hosted by Michael Gerson and Amy Holmes, the pair brought their differing perspectives to the table in each episode, bridging the gap between conservative and liberal ideologies. Gerson, a seasoned journalist, columnist for The Washington Post, and former speechwriter for President George W. Bush, represented a moderate antique conservative viewpoint. Holmes, an independent political analyst, commentator, and a former speechwriter for Republican Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, portrayed an African-American Libertarian perspective. This unusual mix added an element of intrigue and approachability to each episode.

The format of "In Principle" was structured firmly around its substance. Each episode was split into segments, offering a platform for an in-depth interview with a guest, followed by articulate discussions between the hosts and sometimes even additional guest commentators. This separate segment setup helped the show avoid being cluttered, with each installment maintaining a certain degree of focus while offering variety within the 30-minute runtime.

"In Principle" stayed true to its name and emphasized the principles underlying political decisions and actions rather than the drama that often surrounds them. The show aimed to delve into the fundamental ideas and convictions that drive political decision-making. However, the discussions were more than theoretical debates; they were grounded in the real and pressing issues of the present day, often going beyond politics to touch on a wide array of social, cultural, and ethical questions.

Guests on "In Principle" were an eclectic mix of figures from various sectors including politicians, authors, activists, and scholars. The guest list was designed to show the diversity of thought that exists within the American public and political space. Advocates of free markets rubbed shoulders with champions of social justice, while secularists and people of faith eagerly presented their views. In several episodes, regular citizens were also invited to share their perspectives related to the episode's topic, serving to ground these conversations by channeling real experiences and opinions.

The show often focused on the divide between conservatives and liberals, but it was not exclusive to that theme. The dialogue also extended to include a wider set of socio-political issues such as race relations, immigration, religion’s role in contemporary society, and the American identity in a globalized world. Central to all these discussions was an exploration of the principles guiding these issues and the subsequent actions taken in light of them.

"In Principle" was widely praised for its civil and respectful platform, standing in contrast to the often-combative landscape of political talk shows. The hosts were respected for their dedication to treating guests and their views with fairness and respect, regardless of political aisle.

While the show did not shy away from addressing controversies and sensitive issues, it did so with a level of sophistication that sought to illuminate, not insult. Crucially, the hosts' dialogue with guests was not aimed at winning arguments but at understanding the principles underpinning the viewpoints presented. The show’s guiding philosophy is perfectly summed up in the title: "In Principle," a space for intelligent discussions that cut beneath the surface of political and societal discourses to grapple with the principles that guide them.

In its brief existence, "In Principle" endeavored to pave the way for a different kind of political talk show – one where principles took center stage, one that engaged in intellectual, insightful conversations, and one that emphasized the underlying beliefs that guide political actions. Despite its short lifespan, the show made a commendable effort to elevate the level of public discourse through thoughtful discussions that bridged ideological divisions.