Barbie computer engineer story withdrawn after sexism row

[Siegehammer]

Barbie I can be a Computer Engineer, published by Mattel in four years ago, caught the internet’s attention earlier this week when author Pamela Ribon quoted on her blog a scene from the story in which Barbie tells Skipper: “I’m designing a game that shows kids how computers work …" Barbie, however, goes on to admit: “I’m only creating the design ideas … I’ll need Steven and Brian’s help to turn it into a real game!”

Her post brought down an avalanche of criticism on the book, which had already attracted a host of negative reviews on Amazon. Now Mattel has pulled the title from online sale, and issued a statement via the character’s Facebook page.

“The Barbie I Can Be A Computer Engineer book was published in 2010. Since that time we have reworked our Barbie books. The portrayal of Barbie in this specific story doesn’t reflect the brand’s vision for what Barbie stands for,” said Mattel. “We believe girls should be empowered to understand that anything is possible and believe they live in a world without limits. We apologise that this book didn’t reflect that belief. All Barbie titles moving forward will be written to inspire girls’ imaginations and portray an empowered Barbie character.”

 

[oldcatholicguy]

So I guess we are supposed to tell girls-
-yes, you’re supposed to look like a super model who has undergone a lot of cosmetic surgery
-and no you aren’t supposed to ask your male co-workers for help when you need it

 

[MarcoPolo]

Why would a book with a Barbie character asking “Steven and Brian” for help mean women are categorically incapable of computer programming?