Sacred Paths and Profane Parks: The Camino de Santiago vs. Disney World: Sarah Gingerich

    In Dr. Redick’s writing, titled “Profane Experience and Sacred Encounter: Journeys to Disney and the Camino de Santiago”, Dr. Redick explores the fundamental contrast between pilgrimage and tourism, identifying them as sacred and profane journeys, respectively, though contrasting Disney World and the Camino de Santiago. This analysis identifies Disney World as a site where tourist actions may imply ritual-like activity focused on capitalism, which functions as a quasi-sacred journey site for some visitors. On the other hand, the destination of Santiago de Compostela is a place where people can escape the “market world” to reorient themselves on their spirituality and more transcendent virtues. Dr. Redick clearly discusses how places such as Disney World and Santiago de Compostela play an important role in elevating community versus promoting self-indulgence, ultimately demonstrating that the designations of traveler are very different.

    This paper was very interesting for me! I have grown up in a family that loves Disney World, and my older sister even worked there for quite some time as a character performer and met her husband there. For my family, going to Disney World is a big deal, and our time in and out of the parks is very planned and, honestly, a little intense. I can see how this place cultivates an environment of self-indulgence, as I can definitely see that in my experiences being there. I still love Disney World, but some people do take their love of that place into an almost grotesque spiritual place.

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