It’s not just the physical health effects of the addictive toys that appear to be a source of concern. Last month, the Rossia 24 state television channel labeled spinners “the toy of the opposition.”
“Spinners are popular among students,” the presenter told viewers. “But not only them. They’ve been spotted more than once in the hands of representatives of the non-systemic opposition,” he added, using the umbrella term for anyone who does not belong to the handful of registered political parties.
The online shop Handspinning.ru has an altogether different view of the toy’s effect. “These toys will help get rid of a whole range of small, bad habits — instead of picking their noses or fidgeting, your hands will be occupied,” the shop promises.