My understanding is that this whole debate is a bit sensationalized, because, whether their copyright expires or not, Disney will still hold a trademark--which exists indefinitely--on the likeness of Mickey Mouse. The issue at stake is their hold over the copyright of the original Steamboat Willie films--that's what the copyright is set to expire on.
Yes, it would be very hard for Disney to exist if they lost IP rights to the likeness of Mickey Mouse, but they won't, because he's trademarked, and trademark exists to ensure that companies retain rights to the branding and art crucial to their operation and the identification of their business. Should Mickey Mouse slip into the public domain? I don't think anybody would argue that. But should the Steamboat Willie cartoons, a cultural landmark now nearing a century old, become common property? A lot more people would argue yes.
My outline here is probably lacking some accuracy and precision, because I'm not an expert. If there are any details I've missed, please do let me know.
Yes, it would be very hard for Disney to exist if they lost IP rights to the likeness of Mickey Mouse, but they won't, because he's trademarked, and trademark exists to ensure that companies retain rights to the branding and art crucial to their operation and the identification of their business. Should Mickey Mouse slip into the public domain? I don't think anybody would argue that. But should the Steamboat Willie cartoons, a cultural landmark now nearing a century old, become common property? A lot more people would argue yes.
My outline here is probably lacking some accuracy and precision, because I'm not an expert. If there are any details I've missed, please do let me know.