ABSTRACT
In retrospect, Quayle's diatribe against Murphy Brown's gestation pales in comparison to the campaigns launched by Republicans and Democrats against popular culture. Thanks to the explosion of technology and the growing accessibility of media outlets, those who support a conservative social agenda can tune out Murphy Brown and tune in a panoply of offerings. A world of difference separates Murphy Brown from gangsta rap, but the basic issue is the same: the legitimization of political influence on American values. Quayle became a bellwether for what was to come in the culture wars. The dilemma for leaders is how to bridge the growing cultural divide besetting Americans who have sustained their nation on a belief system that emphasized unity. That unity was one based on faith in a democratic nationstate and specifically did not mean unity of religion, culture, or traditions.
