The Controversy behind Barbie

The issue in this exploratory paper is the controversy over Barbie. The controversy deals with what the Barbie doll represents. Over the years people have debated over whether or not Barbie is a suitable toy for young girls to play with because they feel it promotes poor body image. Since Barbie is a popular doll for children to play with and it has been since 1959. This leaves society with Barbie supporters and those who are anti-Barbie. The parts of the rhetorical situation that can be found in this paper are the three differing perspecitves. The author breaks the paper down into the perspectives of those who are anti-Barbie, Barbie supporters, and Barbie moderates. Those who are anti-Barbie argue feminism and the fact that Barbie promotes the importance of clothes and physical appearance. The supporters of Barbie say that Barbie is a fun part of growing up and a tradtion from the start. Those who are moderates on the issue believe Barbie is a scapegoat and that the doll cannot be blamed for all poor self esteem issues. The author explores all aspects of the controversy over the topic. The author is informing the audience, who is mainly anyone interested in the Barbie controversy, on the issue. Constraints of the paper could be the veiws of feminism and tradition. Barbie dolls have been around for a long time and have become part of the childhood experience for young girls. The author reveals herself to be a Barbie moderate. The author feels the issue is more complicated then good or bad.