A Touch Too Far!?

This particularly interesting article was brought to my attention which i thought relevant, considering the industry we all work in and the limits reality can be pushed. The link is above and the article in Italics below.

File this squarely under “would never happen in the U.S.” but French lawmakers have a fascinating new idea to combat body image issues: require disclaimers on Photoshopped or otherwise “enhanced” images of people.

The required warning would be needed in newspaper and magazine advertising, press photos, product packaging, political campaigns and art photography, according to the Telegraph. The language will reportedly be: “Retouched photograph aimed at changing a person’s physical appearance.”

The proposed law comes from French MP Valerie Boyer and is inspired by a recent report she authored on anorexia and bulemia. She points to the deterimental effect that unrealistic body images can have on adolescents: “Many young people, particularly girls, do not know the difference between the virtual and reality, and can develop complexes from a very young age. In some cases this leads to anorexia or bulimia and very serious health problems.”

More than 50 French politicians have voiced support for the law. If passed, advertisers who break it would be subject to a fine of £30,000 (about $48,200 USD), or 50 percent of the campaign cost.

What do you think: should this law pass? 

Is Photoshopped body imagery a public health issue?

I'd be interested to hear your comments and feedback on this topic. This should seriously affect the way celebrities, especially, are portrayed as I know retouchers who have even had to make certain very well known skinny celebrities skinnier. This really puts across a completely unattainable image to the public unless you are truly born of Mattel!