Disney World is seen as an artificial, programmed environment in the eyes of
Susan Willis, a Duke University English professor (84). To her, the practice of
amusement seems as catastrophic as the end of mankind. I disagree and believe
that there is nothing wrong with amusement. In the words of Aristotle, "But
to amuse oneself…seems right, for amusement is a sort of relaxation, and we
need relaxation because we cannot work continuously" (Cahn, 124). Disney
World offers venues for relaxation and amusement. It tailors the visitor's
experience through theme parks such as MGM Studios, Epcot Center, and The Magic
Kingdom. These parks each present a unique entertainment experience that
attracts children and adults alike. Ms. Willis, Disney World may be a
manufactured sphere of fantasy but it provides entertainment and amusement that
is both beneficial and necessary for people. When I finally stumbled upon the
spherical, disproportional, black ears of Mickey Mouse, we shook hands and I was
overcome by a feeling of warmth and joy. I had wandered the Magic Kingdom all
day in search of my favorite characters and I suddenly found myself tilting my
neck upward to see Mickey's permanent smile staring happily down at me. Later
that day, the heralded parade along Main Street U.S.A. commenced with astounding
beauty and energy. The dazzling colors and larger than life floats were
undoubtedly appealing to every child's imagination. Characters seen before only
on television were transformed into three-dimensional life. Through Disney's
entertainment, fantasy became reality. Amusement reciprocates into education at
Disney World, specifically at MGM Studios and Epcot Center. A tour through the
back lots of MGM leads the entertained to real studios where the Nickolodeon
channel films a few of its popular game shows. Close by lie actual animation
labs where gleeful tourists get a glimpse of Disney's artists skillfully weaving
through the animation process. Epcot Center, with its mall of international
countries, allows visitors to learn about the culture of a foreign country
through sidewalk shows, specialty shops, and eclectic restaurants. The culture
of each country is displayed with a high degree of authenticity, as the
employees are natives of their respective countries. As Disney World electrifies
brave visitors with its heart pounding rides, other visitors can devote their
time to relaxation. With a choice of numerous resorts, guests of Disney World
can take a day off from the theme parks while being sufficiently entertained.
Disney's luxurious resorts feature championship golf courses, tennis courts,
swimming pools, and live shows. As tourists relax, they can also explore various
activities at their leisure. An increasing number of tourists flock to Disney
World each year to be amused. The treatment and entertainment they are exposed
to is first class. Disney World's worthwhile entertainment is displayed through
its many attractions. It is evident that fantasy, learning, and relaxation play
major roles in the allure of Disney World. Humans will always need entertainment
because play and activity have their limits. There lies a balance between
activity and amusement. I believe Disney World has succeeded in its quest to
make the latter a beneficial part of people's lives.
Bibliography
Cahn, Steven M. Classic And Contemporary Readings In The Philosophy Of
Education. New York: The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., 1997.