Comments update: readers have accused American toy maker Mattel of dragging its heels in the attempt to diversify the iconic Barbie doll. Read on for more on this and explore our comments page to keep up with the latest discussions.
Barbie girl: the latest Barbie range includes four body types: original, tall, petite, and curvy. But has Mattel gone far enough to fend off criticism that the doll promotes unhealthy body ideals, or has the company simply pandered to unjustified concerns"
"If they want to be politically correct, why don't they make an ugly Barbie"" asked one reader on Instagram. "Playing is about fantasy."
Others welcomed the American toymaker's decision to diversify its range of dolls, despite declaring the move to be twenty years too late. "Mattel should have been pioneering a variety of body images alongside the second wave of Feminism,? said Justine. "They shouldn't be applauded for this. It is too little too late."
"Barbie is finally moving with the times," concluded James. "The selection of Barbies should be vast and include religious garments such as the hijab too." Read the comments on this story »

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