A Memorable Exchange in The West Wing: Presidential Diplomacy and a Sliding Rule

When exploring Aaron Sorkin's The West Wing, one scene stands out as a classic example of the show's blend of intelligence, humor, and strategic social commentary. In an episode, President Jed Bartlett engages in an intriguing dialogue with a woman on a radio program who holds anti-gay beliefs during a function at The White House. The exchange is a masterclass in how to diplomatically address sensitive subjects while employing humor and textual references.

Context and Characters

The scene takes place at a gathering in the White House. The woman, a radio host known for her anti-gay views, is present and expresses her beliefs in a manner that challenges President Bartlett. This sets the stage for a nuanced and entertaining discussion. The exchange between the President and the radio host highlights the complexities of society and religion, making it a compelling watch.

The Dialogue

Aaron Sorkin's dialogue is quick-witted and sharp. President Bartlett, played brilliantly by Martin Sheen, acknowledges the woman's perspective and then proceeds to turn the tables gracefully. He references the Bible, using it as a thread to weave through various social and religious issues. Here, he questions the radio host regarding the stances of the Bible on contemporary issues, thereby bringing the conversation back to the essential values and principles at play.

Slavery and the Old Testament

President Bartlett begins by discussing the Bible's stance on slavery, which is a highly controversial topic. He poses a question to the radio host: how much should he sell his daughter for, given that the Bible states that slavery is acceptable? This question is not only thought-provoking but also a clear indication of the absurdity of the host's stance. By using this example, President Bartlett highlights the inconsistency in the host's ideals and the Bible's teachings.

Touching Pigskin and Modernity

Next, the President turns to the Bible's position on touching pigskin, noting that traditional American footballs are made from pigskin. He prompts the radio host with the question: how should the players be punished for touching pigskin, given the Bible sees it as wrong? This question captures the essence of the modern conflict between traditional beliefs and contemporary practices, illustrating how societal norms evolve over time.

Working on the Sabbath and Modern Exemptions

President Bartlett then addresses the Bible's stance on working on the Sabbath, which is considered a deadly sin. He poses a hypothetical scenario involving his Chief of Staff, who repeatedly comes to work on Sundays. He asks: does he have to kill his Chief of Staff himself if the Bible states working on the Sabbath is a deadly sin? This question exemplifies the absurdity of adhering strictly to an ancient value in a modern context, thereby challenging the host's rigidity.

The Bottom Line and Respect

After addressing these points, President Bartlett delivers the final line that encapsulates his message: In this building, when the President stands, everyone stands. This line, delivered with the presence of Martin Sheen, resonates with authority and respect. It subtly conveys the unwavering authority of the President, who sets a standard of respect and adherence to protocol.

Intellectual References and Linguistic Nuance

Throughout the discussion, President Bartlett employs both the Bible and logical reasoning to challenge the host's perspective. He masterfully uses rhetorical questions and references to create a dialogue that is both respectful and forceful. This blend of intellectual references and linguistic nuance makes the scene not only memorable but also thought-provoking.

Conclusion

The West Wing’s rich dialogue, particularly in this scene with President Jed Bartlett, showcases the show's ability to delve into complex topics with wit, intelligence, and a keen sense of social commentary. By leveraging Aaron Sorkin's sharp writing and the talents of the cast, the scene stands as a pivotal example of modern television's ability to engage viewers with meaningful and entertaining content.