Eye On CameraWare -- adult

Written by: Trisha Portishead

How is nudism defined compared to naturism?

Depending on the individual’s philosophy, Naturism is normally defined as those who wish to be closer to nature whereas nudism specifies those who practice nudity in a more urban setting. Could it just be a more cleverly designed label used as a cover for exhibitionism and voyeurism?

Those who don’t practice this art of nature would be inclined to believe so but the very basis of this clothing optional lifestyle has a historical following which lends the premise that there is more here than meets the eye. The format for which this lifestyle is based upon is that those who practice this art believe that ridding themselves of clothing and all its societal constraints will bring them back to a more natural state of mind, being and spiritual oneness with nature itself. Evidence of this practice predates European Civilization and continues to this day. Even back then, the nudists had their share of hurdles and skeptics to overcome, mainly based on the ever-changing religious formats and the difficulty society has separating nudity from sexuality. This is water and oil difference of opinion for which there is no solvent. As with all topics of civilization this opposition is to be expected and incurred.

Is exhibitionism not a fancy name for nudism?

Herein, lies the difference, all acts of spontaneous nudity relegates itself to being classified as exhibitionism. Streaking is also a form of exhibitionism. Removing your clothes as a means to attain a free shopping spree is also a form of exhibitionism. It’s quick and painless and usually forgotten quite readily except by law. Nudism is a lifestyle. Perhaps the overall generalization that all nudity is sexual prohibits us from realizing this attribute to this society.

Is one form of nudity more easily tolerated in society than others?

Exhibitionism is a temporary form of nudity as opposed to the daily lifestyle of the nudist/naturist so yes… we are selectively tolerant. "We allow our own inconsistent morals to define for others the boundaries what is acceptable and what is not. "Exhibitionism is not tolerated in general society legally as nudism/naturism is within certain restrictions. Is this fair to impose our morals on a part of our society that does not see nudity in the same light as we do? As the inclusion of children are deemed parts of this lifestyle, I think we always will, whether it is *fair* or not. We are divided on this issue but we cannot conquer. We can live in one civilization with varied societies but the overall acceptance of one form over the other could never possibly occur without the demise of religion and morality.

History of nudism/naturism

The history of nudism predates before Judeo-Christian-Moslem concepts were structured. The Greeks and Romans lived in a society of "clothing when necessary", frame of mind. Bathing, as well as sports, was enjoyed in the nude, as witnessed by the early Olympic Games in Greece. The term Gymnos, Greek for naked, was how these athletes competed.
They also trained nude in their respective sports. With the demise of the Ancient Civilizations and the beginning of a religion that stressed the sinfulness of sensuality, nudism was on the decline. Body shame was on the rise. Entering in the 16th century, were the Puritans, who strongly opposed nudity as immoral. Religion and its tolerance of this lifestyle became outraged and incensed at this type of behavior. In Europe, the Renaissance period gave way to an acceptance of nudism as a form of art with such radical thinkers as Benjamin Franklin and Henry David Thoreau. By the turn of the twentieth century, Europe excelled in its glorification of nudism as an art and by 1933, the concept of social nudism received national attention in North America with the forming of The National Nudist Conference. The Naturist Society and The Naturist Action Committee was formed in America to provide information and support for naturist and nudist groups in the country. Mahatma Gandhi also lent his views on his own form of naturism while in political power. This will always be a historical debate with no valid conclusion.

Present view of nudism/naturism

To date, we have many settings in urban culture in North America specifically in place for those who enjoy this lifestyle. A majority of these are inclusive in a private setting away from the general public. We do not view their lifestyles as societies mainstream but we have learned to accept on a certain level that which we do not understand. This is civilization. This is our society. We do not have one ruling factor and as such, debate, disagreement, misunderstandings, tolerance and upheaval are what allow us to continue to flourish throughout time. Nudism as its own society has greatly increased. Resorts, beaches, clubs, stores, literature and organizations can be found worldwide. This lifestyle has created its own niche in the world and if you would like more information on this, we have included below a few urls of interest to get you started.

http://www.naturistsociety.com/
http://dmoz.org/Recreation/Nudism/
http://www.nudist-news.com/store.htm