Conflict at Disneyland: A root‐metaphor analysis

Abstract

This field study uses metaphor analysis to illuminate recent conflicts at Disneyland. A 30‐year change of emphasis of root‐metaphors from “drama”; to “family”; reflects fundamental differences in world‐view between management and employees. Recently, economic problems brought some of these differences to the surface, triggering a complex confrontation involving first‐ and second‐order issues. The implications of this confrontation for the future of Disneyland are discussed. Metaphor analysis is offered as one potentially useful method for studying the symbolic, dynamic aspects of organizational conflict.