Barbie, a secular figure in Mattel’s official branding, has been transformed by social media users into a religious and anti-religious avatar. This chapter explores the ways in which Barbie is reimagined within digital spaces, particularly on TikTok and Instagram, where users manipulate her image to engage in religious discourse, satire, and identity formation. Through an analysis of user-generated content, we examine how Barbie is positioned as a divine figure, a satirical critique of religious traditions, and a tool for processing religious trauma. The chapter highlights the interplay between consumer culture, faith, and digital media, arguing that Barbie’s malleability allows users to negotiate their own beliefs and critique dominant religious narratives. Ultimately, these digital interactions showcase Barbie’s evolving cultural significance beyond childhood play, turning her into a lens through which creators explore spirituality, social commentary, and resistance.

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#PlasticReligion: Barbie as a Religious Avatar on Social Media

  • Emily R. Aguiló-Pérez,
  • Emma Cieslik,
  • Mackenzie Taylor

摘要

Barbie, a secular figure in Mattel’s official branding, has been transformed by social media users into a religious and anti-religious avatar. This chapter explores the ways in which Barbie is reimagined within digital spaces, particularly on TikTok and Instagram, where users manipulate her image to engage in religious discourse, satire, and identity formation. Through an analysis of user-generated content, we examine how Barbie is positioned as a divine figure, a satirical critique of religious traditions, and a tool for processing religious trauma. The chapter highlights the interplay between consumer culture, faith, and digital media, arguing that Barbie’s malleability allows users to negotiate their own beliefs and critique dominant religious narratives. Ultimately, these digital interactions showcase Barbie’s evolving cultural significance beyond childhood play, turning her into a lens through which creators explore spirituality, social commentary, and resistance.