Raising a Generation of Snobs

I have just one question to ask. When did we decide that raising snobs was the best way to guarantee a successful future for our young generation? I’m talking about the millions who buy their little girls Barbie dolls. (“Forever Young: After 30 years, Barbie has more clothes, friends and fans than ever,” Jan. 29)

There are certain things that greatly influence our children, and the toys they choose to play with, or we choose to buy for them, are right up there with the kind of television programs we permit them to watch. Giving your child a Barbie doll is like telling them they have to grow up just as society advises them, wearing miniskirts, etc. The doll itself wears the “right” clothes, drives a sports car, lives in a mansion and looks like a model.

How about more toys that teach some sort of valuable lesson? Don’t we want our children to develop their imaginations, not their wardrobes?

CLARA KIRSNER

Culver City