DISNEY’S AMERICA THEME PARK: THE THIRD BATTLE F BULL RUN 2
Case Study: Disney’s America Theme Park: The Third Battle of Bull Run – Question #1
What are the key issues that Eisner must consider in this situation from a government
perspective?
Answer
According to Argenti (2023), the evolving relationship between government and business
has reached a juncture where the influence of business on public affairs is intense. Historically,
in lobbying and political influence sectors like the banking industry, major scrutiny surrounds
major tech companies, because of their pervasive influence and their impact on governmental
policies and societal aspects. Businesses still have to remain vigilant regarding government
interactions and regulation framework, as it will still impact the success of the industries. In the
case of Virginia, the proposed construction of Disney’s America theme park confronts a
multitude of challenges from local and state governmental opposition to the concept of
establishing a theme park rooted in American History. The key considerations for Eisner include
the impact of media disclosures, the location of the theme park, economic ramifications, and
concerns regarding traffic congestion and environmental pollution. The premature disclosure of
the theme park’s plans to the Wall Street Journal raises apprehensions regarding trust and
effective communication, potentially causing complications during the process before Disney’s
America official approval.
According to Wriba (2023), the government plays a vital role in promoting corporate
social responsibility activities and practices. Collaborative efforts between government entities
and businesses facilitate the dissemination of good practices in corporate social responsibility
activities. This can lead to economic development and societal advancement. Businesses can
make a profit while, contributing to communal welfare. The government in developing countries
DISNEY’S AMERICA THEME PARK: THE THIRD BATTLE F BULL RUN 3
bolsters corporate social responsibilities through, regulatory frameworks, collaborative ventures,
and allocation of mandatory resources, awareness campaigns, soft legislation, cooperation, and
mandatory resources to incentivize voluntary actions. Despite Disney’s potential to generate
employment opportunities and tax revenues in Virginia, they projected 19,000 jobs and $169
million in tax revenues. Skeptics such as the Piedmont Environment Council did not believe
these projections were realistic (Argenti, 2023).
A study by Li et al. (2020), highlights the symbiotic relationship between business
incubators and government regulations in promoting entrepreneurship development, particularly
vital in improving a weak economy. Business incubation programs provide startups with an array
of resources such as networking services, office spaces, consultancy services, training programs,
and ancillary support mechanisms. Disney’s America had the support of the government owing
to its status as a new venture. In keeping with Argenti (2023), Disney’s America had official
endorsements extending to the park’s location and the concept of a theme park based on
American history. However, various staunch viewpoints within Virginia’s community came out
in favor of the preservation of its many historical events and its historic heritage. They felt the
theme park would devalue the historical heritage. The anti-Disney group felt that more traffic
and air pollution would be created due to an increase in visitors to the state.
Biblical Integration
The Bible admonishes businesses to be responsible and to operate within the purview of
governmental mandates. Romans 13:1-5 says, “Be a good citizen. All governments are under
God. Insofar as there is peace and order, it’s God’s order. So live responsibly as a citizen. If
you’re irresponsible to the state, then you’re irresponsible with God, and God will hold you
responsible. Duly constituted authorities are only a threat if you’re trying to get by with
DISNEY’S AMERICA THEME PARK: THE THIRD BATTLE F BULL RUN 4
something. Decent citizens should have nothing to fear. Do you want to be on good terms with
the government? Be a responsible citizen and you’ll get on just fine, the government working to
your advantage. But if you’re breaking the rules right and left, watch out. The police aren’t there
just to be admired in their uniforms. God also has an interest in keeping order, and he uses them
to do it. That’s why you must live responsibly—not just to avoid punishment but also because
it’s the right way to live” (The Message, 1993/2024). This passage delineates the imperative of
civic responsibility, clarifying that adherence to governmental regulations not only aligns with
divine order but also ensures societal harmony. Eisner needs to be strategic and prioritize
government frameworks that bode well for the state’s overall prosperity. He needs to be
cognizant of the biblical precept encouraging meticulous citizenship as a channel for divine favor
and public welfare.
References
Argenti, P. A. (2023). Corporate communication. McGraw Hill LLC.
https://prod.reader-ui.prod.mheducation.com/epub/sn_64f0/data-uuid-
374ce431337648f48afdb154b048d413#data-uuid-f85e7e5da62c41469d1af86ef3005038
Li, C., Ahmed, N., Qalati, S. A., Khan, A., & Naz, S. (2020). Role of business incubators as a
tool for entrepreneurship development: The mediating and moderating role of business
start-up and government regulations.NSustainability, 12(5),1822.
https://doi.org/10.3390/su12051822
The Message (2024). Romans 13:1-5. The Bible Gateway Online.
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans+13%3A1-3&version=MSG.
(Originally published by Eugene H. Peterson, 1993).
Wirba, A.V. (2023). Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): The Role of Government in
