“Our heritage and ideals, our code and standards – the things we live by and teach our children – are preserved or diminished by how freely we exchange ideas and feelings.”
- December 5, 1901 – December 15, 1966
- Born in the United States
- Animator, film director, entrepreneur, producer
- Best known as the creator of Mickey Mouse, he established the animation film industry. As the founder of Disneyland, he is globally recognized as an iconic figure in the world of entertainment.
Quote
“Our heritage and ideals, our code and standards – the things we live by and teach our children – are preserved or diminished by how freely we exchange ideas and feelings.”
Explanation
In this quote, Walt Disney emphasizes the crucial role of open communication in preserving cultural values and ideals. He believed that the core principles and standards that define society, especially those passed down to the next generation, are dependent on the free exchange of ideas and feelings. This highlights his belief in the power of storytelling and dialogue to shape and reinforce societal values. For Disney, fostering an environment where individuals could express themselves freely was essential for maintaining the integrity of a society’s cultural heritage.
Historically, Disney’s own work helped facilitate such exchanges. His films, particularly in the post-war era, were not only about entertainment but also about communicating universal values such as optimism, courage, and integrity. Through his animation and storytelling, Disney sought to reflect and reinforce the values that were important in American society, including respect for others, the importance of family, and a commitment to justice. By creating movies that communicated these ideals, he contributed to the way in which these values were passed down to future generations.
In the modern world, Disney’s thoughts on the importance of free expression and the exchange of ideas are increasingly relevant, particularly in the context of globalization and the digital age. The ability to share ideas and feelings freely is vital in an era where social media, online forums, and global communication networks connect people from all walks of life. Disney’s sentiment echoes the modern-day emphasis on dialogue and understanding across cultures, reminding us that the exchange of ideas is key to preserving not just personal values, but collective, shared ideals as well.
