Jamie Richards- Disney is Extraordinary (Topic of choice #1)

This past class, we again touched on how ordinary places can be transformed into the "extraordinary" solely by ritual, in reference to a proposition brought forth in Lane's "Landscapes of the Sacred." Having traveled to Disney World on numerous occasions, I personally felt that this lecture was extremely eye-opening. As I am quite familiar with Disney's "sugar-coating" and blatant intent on keeping its productions politically correct, I had never before thought of this worldwide attraction as even slightly religious in nature. Trips to Disney World were never to be classified as "pilgrimages" so much as "happiness-filled adventures." Reflecting back, however, it is indeed quite surprising how much effort is apparent on behalf of the corporation to keep the environment controlled. Disney truly is a bubble of joy and bliss; the outside world often no longer seems relevant while exploring this theme park. Unlike Busch Gardens Africa, where Tampa is visible from within the park, all one can see from within the four sections of Disney World are nature and Disney-composed creations. In fact, it is arguable that the only thing maintaing our link with external aspects of life are our cell phones and other pieces of mobile technology. In Disney's eyes, we are to be treated with world-class service in exchange for our loyalty and (financial) support. One should ask oneself, "Why do people travel hundreds and even thousands of miles each year to visit Disney World?" The answer is that this park provides an escape that transcends reality- a controlled environment offering a consistent source of excitement and happiness that leaves extremely minimal room for flaws. It is this same escape that many individuals seek in practicing rituals in support of the various mainstream religions.