In a response to Giroux’s question about whether Disney movies are good or bad for adolescents, I would have to say, who cares? The purpose of Disney movies is to provide a fantastical storyline that exercises the highly imaginative mind of a child and I don’t see anything wrong with that. I feel that Giroux looked (as many Communication scholars do) too far into the subject. The signs of racism and male dominance that he sees go unnoticed by children (the target audience) and therefore, I see no problem.
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In The Lion King, Giroux sees subordination of women and racial stereotyping as a child sees a tale of growing up through the character of Simba and a love story through his relationship with Nala. Children become wrapped up in Disney movies’ excellent combination of moving animation, catchy songs, and emotional storylines and are oblivious to the social ideologies and myths that are imbedded within. Because of these reasons, I feel that Disney movies are harmless sources of entertainment for children.
I don't think you should undermine the deductive capabilities of a child. The Disney corporation has such wide influences on society today: on the construct of the family unit and on how society should be viewed. Its constant presence in a child's childhood ensures his or her adoption of Disney's ideals. I mean, after all, that is why subliminal messages work. I am sure that as a child grows up, he or she will have her own opinions that are not structured by Disney's ideologies. However, that is not to say that those same ideologies will not subconsciously affecting their perceptions.
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