The Barbie Dilemma

I am about to say something that might get people a little upset. And that’s okay because I am speaking my mind, and throughout my life, everyone has told me to do just that. So here it goes: I believe there is nothing wrong with the Barbie doll. I don’t think it was meant to counter attack the feminist movement as Prager says. Of course, the doll exemplifies a “perfect” life, full of Malibu sun and care-free, California living; I won’t argue that. However, claiming the doll serves as a tool to undercut the efforts of feminist or “subliminally” put women in their place is complete nonsensical.

                To address Prager’s strange-bordering crazy- discussion of the “dignity of concealment”, her idea is absurd. Exposing children to that kind of imagery has clear consequences that I am sure you- an intelligent reader- understands. Much the same way we avoid swear words around children, so their minds won't be filled with slanderous language, we should also protect them from sexual content. Thus, replacing Ken’s “unidentifiable lump” is absolute insanity.

                Yet, Prager still believes Barbie’s “humongous breasts”- which is a bit of an exaggeration- implicitly display the world’s two-fold image of men and women. On one hand, you have the male, too worthy to have his private parts shown. Then, you have the female who, according to Prager, was “designed with such obvious sexual equipment.” And to this, I point to our class discussion of the characteristics one looks for in a spouse. Of course, you must have a physical attraction to your spouse, but this should not be the sole priority. Yet, on the side with all women, almost all of the descriptions- 4 out of the 5, if I’m not mistaken- were focused on physical traits like “rock hard abs”. Thus, I think all of us- male and female alike- share in an obsession with the physical. It’s not a male thing; it’s a human thing. Thus, the critical view Prager has only creates division as women blame men, and men blame women back. Although women deserve a more prominent role in society, I believe the ideas of people like Prager will only make matters worse.