sociologicalll

As we dig into the topic of Socialization, we had a chance to view an eye-opening video, the Mickey Mouse Monopoly. The video identifies The Walt Disney Company as one of the largest global media conglomerates. This places Disney in a powerful role in society. Individuals of all ages have experienced Disney whether it is through the movies and entertainment, theme parks, products, toys etc. The video highlights specifically Disney’s influence on society and specifically on the younger audience. The video analyzes the racists undertones in Disney movies as well as the thoughts of femininity that are outwardly portrayed by the characters. • The highly sexualized bodies, coy seductiveness, always needing to be rescued by a male. • Ariel gives up her voice in order to win the prince with her body in The Little Mermaid; Mulan almost single-­‐handedly wins the war only to return home to be romanced; and Beauty and the Beast's Belle endures an abusive and violent Beast in order to redeem him • Representations of race and ethnicity are similarly skewed in the world of Disney. It is noted that people of color are rarely featured in Disney’s animated movies. When they do appear, they tend to reinforce the most racial and ethnic stereotypes . • African-­‐Americans are presented as “jive” crows in Dumbo, as human-­‐wannabe orangutans in Jungle Book, and are totally absent in Tarzan's Africa. • Latinos are portrayed as irresponsible Chihuahuas in Lady and the Tramp and Oliver and Company. • Other examples include Latinos and African-­‐Americans depicted as street-­‐gang thugs in The Lion King; Asians as treacherous Siamese cats in Lady and the Tramp; Arabs as barbarians in Aladdin; and Native Americans as savages in Peter Pan and Pocahontas). What are your thoughts?? Is this documentary far- fetched or is there something to this? Explain Have Disney movies historically perpetuated stereotypes and influenced gender socialization? Has Disney and its enormity impacted youth and our society? Is the impact negative? Positive? Explain. Have they done so knowingly or not? What do you think about Disney guiding children's play and imagination? Do you have any personal connections/experience with Disney impacting your lifestyle specifically?