We've seen it time and again: ultra-thin models walking the runways at fashion shows around the world. Nothing new there; it's been happening for decades. Obviously it sets a bad example for young women, and even worse endangers the health of models for the sake of fashion.

Many of the top fashion cities in the world are taking extra steps to control the problem, ensuring that those on the catwalk meet minimum weight and age requirements. But according to Reuters, those who watch over the industry in Paris are unwilling to take any extra measures, saying that the history of fashion must be respected -- even if trends featuring dangerously skinny models go in and out of vogue -- and further regulation is not the answer.

We can certainly respect designers' rights to free artistic expression, but not when the lives of manipulated young women (and men) are at stake, and to us, using history and tradition is a poor excuse. After all, strict rules exist in most professions to protect employees and employers alike, so why should the fashion industry be any different?

Photo by mamaVISION on Flickr