I mean, it's nothing new to me. I've been active on here for over twelve years now (you and I actually used to talk quite a bit on AIM, not to point out how old we're all getting)... but recently it seems that the irrational thought train appears to have not only arrived, but permanently parked itself right outside our gates.
Not to mention the paranoia and outright nastiness that seems to plague nearly every thread anymore.
so, i think you're debating two separate issues: your perceived sense of paranoia in this thread and the actual issue of disney controlling its message.
here's a more accurate analogy than the political bribe (this is why stringers on political campaigns cover the exact same stories in an identical tone -- an issue recently depicted rather effectively on "the newsroom"): imagine if the administration threatened to take away credentials from a white house reporter if he/she reported a negative story. in short, they took away access to something integral to do their job.
it's not so much about the free stuff, it's access. sure, access to the gift cards and discounts, but also access to A) WDW-related events that other blogs (their competitors) will still get, and B) a feeling of "community" (watch the cali grill video. i was dorky in HS too, and there's a subconscious sense of "belonging" being leverage here for sure).
i also find the "paranoia" argument very, very tired. listen, i personally find this thread to be extremely useful to understand the inner workings of TWDC: the business. some people choose not to experience disney that way, and that's fine. but playing the paranoia card is essentially sticking your fingers in your ears and saying "LALALA NOT LISTENING!"
agree, disagree, but i know for sure that a few people in this thread a very well-adjusted, highly-respected professionals in their careers. sometimes, certain elements of truth may be uncomfortable, but not everyone who disagrees wears a tinfoil hat.