The Barbie doll character is out-out-synch with the new social paradigm where women are wielding more power both within the house and at work than ever before.
Toys reflect the society. Specifically dolls help in creating role models for girls in a subtle but significant way. Today parents are looking for toys which will develop their daughters’ character and intelligence to nurture them to be future successful professionals, and toys like Barbie just don’t cut the ice.
Next you're gonna say that we can't expect woman to have 16" waists with 30+ inch chests.
I can understand the complaint about the unhealthy role model that Barbie's shape plays, but otherwise I don't get the point. I don't collect Barbie but she's got all kinds of professions and variations, so are you complaining about the prevalence of pink in her vehicle choices or something? I guess a better question is, how would you design a doll that does what you describe, nurture women to be future successful professionals, while also making them desirable to kids?
I know it's far from the same thing because of gender roles and whatnot, but comic book superheroes also don't really promote a realistic role model for boys either, whether in body shape or profession (ie: vigilante). But the action hero line where kids get to role play as doctors, lawyers, and politicians won't sell.
Stop Expecting Barbie To Represent Real Women Of Any Culture
Hey! I am not talking about Barbie's figure. I am referring to way she is portrayed merely as a fashionista with limited tech knowledge...or intelligence. It is out-of-synch because today there are many women who are heading corporations who do not necessarily have a great figure but they are 'smart'. I think Barbie is portrayed as a cute babe... who is not-too-smart.
