information children are fed by the media, Barbie barely leaves a smudge on a child's development. In contrast, Cox states that "Barbie's influence upon the minds of the children who share their play hours with her and her expensive wardrobe and recreation equipment is potentially a very strong one." (8) He focuses on the negative effects of Barbie on children, particularly young girls. The essay is calm in tone, and provokes thought rather than conflict. He poses questions such as "Will they, like