Devoted to Managers and those that seek to improve their management skills

The response of Mattel (NYSE: MAT) toward those criticising its foray into the S&M culture with its newest Barbie was lacking integrity and honesty.

When a number of people challenged the idea of releasing the newest doll creation, Mattel responding saying it was based on a comic book superhero named Black Canary: the same name they're calling the new Barbie.

So what does basing the character on a DC comic superhero have to do with creating a doll dressed in S&M gear? The doll has black gloves and boots, as well as kinky fishnets. Just what our daughters need.

An article in the Sun cited a group named Christian Voice as responding to the incident, saying, "Barbie has always been on the tarty side and this is taking it too far. A children’s doll in sexually suggestive clothing is irresponsible — it’s filth."

This doesn't make any sense to me. What is the upside for Mattel in this? Do they really think parents want their daughters playing with a pervert-inspired doll? Do they think the resultant publicity will overshadow the expected negative responses of parents?

The Black Canary Barbie, which can be viewed here, is due out in September. Hopefully Mattel will wise up and drop the idiocy of this ridiculous product.