The Awareness of Social Nudism 1n Modern Society - University of ...

stated that he not only finds it fascinating, but also encouraging, that the European culture
identifies with social nudism and does not make an issue of it.
As one might expect, my subject does not have a problem with nude beaches or
resorts. In fact he has visited both places on several occasions admitting that his first
experience left him feeling a bit unsettled in not knowing what to expect. However, he was
quickly reassured that with social nudity there are no expectations and that everyone is
comfortable in just being themselves. He states that nude beaches and resorts give nudists
the opportunity to gather without worrying about being harassed by the community and law
officials. However, he mentioned that he would like to encourage local governments to
allocate an area of the beach that would be clearly marked for allowing nudity. This would
give those who want to go nude the opportunity, as well as those who do not want to go
nude, the option to utilize another part of the beach.
In concluding my interview, I asked my subject why he felt people choose to engage
in social nudism. His response to my question was that some people enjoy the freedom of
expressing themselves while nude, and social nudism gives them the opportunity to meet
others with similar interests. Finally, I asked him if he would consider this type of lifestyle
and he replied, "I already am a part of this lifestyle as I visit nude beaches and resorts on a
regular basis. I enjoy having the opportunity to express my nudity in public. " 7
7 Anonymous by request, interview by author, 23 May 2003 .
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