Toys are not only made for fun; the intention of a toy is to inspire and influence a child and ensure that they will form into who society wants them to be. In the text "Toys" Ronald Barthes describes how toys are made to replicate adult professions, not so the child may learn but more for preparation or influence. For example, Barthes states "The Frenchman sees the child as another self." One of the number one toys currently sold in stores is the Disney Junior, Doc McStuffins All in One Nursery. At 79.99 you can not only prepare your child to become a caring parent, but also a doctor or nurse. Barthes states, "…the child can only identify himself as owner, as user, never as creator: he does not invent the world, he uses it:" In my opinion, …show more content…
When a boy opens a birthday present it is typically something along the lines of a hot wheels set, while a little girl would be more likely to open a Barbie doll. Certain objects not only influence a future place in the workforce but define who society wants them to be. Barthes says, "Toys here reveal the list of all the things the adult does not find unusual:" Barthes continues to list a few examples of things that adults in the world see or encounter everyday such as, "war, bureaucracy, ugliness, Martians, etc." The question is, why is this considered to be the norm and why are other things considered unusual? If a boy would rather have a baby doll for his birthday while a girl wants a bright red fire truck; why is that upsetting? Societal norms were created ages ago and parents and the advertisements they see have pushed and solidified these norms in the minds of children. Even if a parent tries to break those norms and broaden their child's views and opportunities they risk repercussions from other parents and possible teasing from friends. The production and distribution of these toys are brainwashing our future, but to the public it is