Being Certain: Meet the Panelists (02:04)

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Musician and Church of England priest Richard Coles introduces musician Andrew Bowie, former conservative MP Edwina Currie, and "Philosopher's Magazine" co-founder Julian Baggini.

Andrew Bowie: the Pitch (03:37)

Bowie discusses Kant's position on good will and Theodor Adorno's assertion that everyone living has convictions. The "additional factor" looks at which convictions we act upon and why.

Edwina Currie: the Pitch (03:31)

Currie criticizes citizens boycotting the vote without becoming politically active. She discusses the movement to question authority that began after World War II; apathy can breed extremism.

Julian Baggini: the Pitch (02:16)

As an atheist, Baggini tries to hold convictions without being dogmatic. This balancing act should apply to political participation.

Theme One: Is Having Convictions Dangerous? (12:19)

Baggini believes convictions can be dangerous, depending on the situation. Currie and Baggini debate whether belief in a flawed system or greed caused the 2008 financial crisis. Panelists discuss sustaining social values while privatizing public services.

Theme Two: Does Changing Society Require Conviction? (11:06)

Currie uses Margaret Thatcher as an example of a conviction politician who used pragmatism; Bowie points out the need for government checks and balances. Baggins discusses means versus ends; acting on conviction requires knowledge and reason.

Theme Three: Should We Abandon Our Convictions? (10:34)

Coles asks whether Tony Blair abandoned his convictions to create change. Panelists debate whether the media was one-sided about the financial crisis. Bowie recalls changing his views on state-run industries. Currie explains her views on equality, freedom, and conservatism.

Credits: Being Certain (00:22)

Credits: Being Certain