Ban it!
Which is what the Iranian government is doing because in their view the dolls represent western decadence and un-Islamic values. This ban will make Barbie far more desirable than any bust increase or waste decrease or hair extension will do. Forced to go underground, Barbie will acquire an aura of danger and rebellion that will make it more desirable for girls and parents alike. (I'm not sure what the Iranian official attitude to Ken is, but if Barbie goes underground, he'd better follow). The ban is the best face lift that Barbie has received in a long time. Matel must be rejoicing.
I'm not a fan of Barbie, particularly the one that used to say "I'm no good at math!" (that model was discontinued after parents and feminists protested it). I confess that as a child I wanted one badly but it was out of reach because we couldn't afford it. Instead, my mom bought me a cheap kind of doll that was sold on carts in Ramallah. The kind that didn't even make it to a toy store. They were bald and boring and had only one outfit. I hated them. They were one step above the ones my grandmother would make from buttons and sticks and yarn. By the time I could afford a barbie, alas I was a feminist!
I feel bad for Sara and Dara, the local Iranian alternatives. For banning Barbie will not help them one bit. On the contrary, the government-sanctioned dolls will be seen as too uncool, too conformist, if not even sell outs. Too bad really-- they are pretty cute.
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