Wow.
After the first two posts, I could predict how this thread was going to turn out. But, I have to say, many of you outdid yourselves! My personal favorite: "Critical thinking is a waste of time." Again: Wow. That's just such an awesome statement. Congratulations. You should be proud.
I read the ENTIRE article. I agree with some of it and disagree with some. But, isn't the "Anti-Disney Manifesto" that it is portrayed to be. And while I agree that it was written from a somewhat pre-ordained cynical perspective, it is also true that it contains not only some hard truths about Disney, but some very positive statements as well.
Disney emphasizes merchandising and marketing to an extreme level: Hard to argue (credibly, anyway) that it's not true.
Disney is focused on the "illusion" of reality, rather than reality itself: Absolutely true. But even he implied that's not always a bad thing.
Disney visitors can be unpleasant, trashy, obnoxious slobs: Yep! But, he never said they cornered the market.
Spaceship Earth is a bit of a snooze: Sorry, but he's right about that. But hey, not everything is a "E" ticket, nor should it be.
EPCOT is focused more on education and environmental preaching than it is on entertainment: Again, not an inherently bad thing, and I DID enjoy the park. But if the park's history didn't bear that statement out, you wouldn't see fewer "World Of Wonders" and more "Test Tracks". They (Disney folks)seem to recognize what he's talking about. (Personally, I'm okay with the expensive margaritas, but I agree Donald has nothing to do with Mexico.)
But, let's remember some other things he said:
He liked Everest
He liked Small World
He thought Tower of Terror was well done.
He is fully appreciative of the engineering and detail work.
He recognizes that the experience is truly magical for many and doesn't criticize them for it.
His so-called criticism about Africa was amusing, but also a compliment to Disney.
In short, I think he really does "get it". It's just not his cup of tea. He seems pretty accepting of that--UNLIKE many of those on these boards. His tolerance seems far greater than that of many people here.
Sorry for the critical thinking.:lookaroun