Quoting deafqueernude:

Last Saturday, while participating in a naturist hike (see Nude Family Outing), a collective discussion was shared concerning nude etiquette (or if such a notion even exists). Ideas and opinions were exchanged; yet, there was no general consensus on this subject. Even Twin, Cuz and I couldn't agree on this matter. Everyone had a different point of view. Like so many topics, those perspectives ranged from the vehement to the frivilous. This seemingly innocent concept DEAFinitely ignited the passions of more than a few.
¿
Afterwards, upon reflection on this conversation, several additional questions entered my mind. Do we, as nudists, have a different set of values of politeness that we employ when naked than when we're textile? Or, are we simply incorporating the general norms of courtesy of the dominant clothing society and giving them a nudecentric spin? Are we accepting and embracing our own culture and way of life?
¿
Personally, my own observation is that we, as a separate and distinct culture, have our own customs and traditions to ensure that we all are comfortable and are able to enjoy our unique lifestyle and worldview. These include (but are not limited to) bringing a personal towel to sit on at functions, not photographing or videotaping nudist events without permission, protecting our privacy and, at the same time, not offending the modesty of others, etc. While these practices may be considered etiquette, in essence, I think they are primarily a cultural attribute, not necessarily observed by the general textile population. As naturists/nudists, we culturally share a value of holding in high regard/esteem the beauty of the nude human body, with all its' imperfections. We also value self-confidence and to me, at least, that is important.
¿
We are all also human. The majority of us naturists and textilists don't want to be perceived as rude nor insensitive. We prefer to be thought of as polite. Therefore, we adhere to the same rules of decency and respect instilled in us since birth by the mainstream society in which we live. It's simply how we behave in public. For example, I always try to be nice to everyone, even passersby. However, I will go out of my way to acknowledge another nudist. Why? We've all suffered too many negative reactions, individually and collectively. It's a cultural affinity/identification/recognition.
¿
Most of us (nude or clothed) are social creatures by nature and these habits of politeness are practically universal in every human culture. The majority of us adhere to these standards. We all learn at an early age that we are accountable for our actions. Breach these guidelines and some type of consequence usually follows, be it legal, social censure or otherwise.
¿
In my humble opinion, as naturists/nudists, we have a system of values, attitudes and beliefs that distinguish and bind us as a culture. Some of these also empower us within our broader society in which we live. Yet, at the same time, we also incorporate some of the concepts and principles of the general population to enrich our life experience. I think we combine what's best from both and make it work for us.
¿
As always, your thoughts are welcome. Get naked. Enjoy!

Last Saturday, while participating in a naturist hike (see Nude Family Outing), a collective discussion was shared concerning nude etiquette (or if such a notion even exists). Ideas and opinions were exchanged; yet, there was no general consensus on this subject. Even Twin, Cuz and I couldn't agree on this matter. Everyone had a different point of view. Like so many topics, those perspectives ranged from the vehement to the frivilous. This seemingly innocent concept DEAFinitely ignited the passions of more than a few.
¿
Afterwards, upon reflection on this conversation, several additional questions entered my mind. Do we, as nudists, have a different set of values of politeness that we employ when naked than when we're textile? Or, are we simply incorporating the general norms of courtesy of the dominant clothing society and giving them a nudecentric spin? Are we accepting and embracing our own culture and way of life?
¿
Personally, my own observation is that we, as a separate and distinct culture, have our own customs and traditions to ensure that we all are comfortable and are able to enjoy our unique lifestyle and worldview. These include (but are not limited to) bringing a personal towel to sit on at functions, not photographing or videotaping nudist events without permission, protecting our privacy and, at the same time, not offending the modesty of others, etc. While these practices may be considered etiquette, in essence, I think they are primarily a cultural attribute, not necessarily observed by the general textile population. As naturists/nudists, we culturally share a value of holding in high regard/esteem the beauty of the nude human body, with all its' imperfections. We also value self-confidence and to me, at least, that is important.
¿
We are all also human. The majority of us naturists and textilists don't want to be perceived as rude nor insensitive. We prefer to be thought of as polite. Therefore, we adhere to the same rules of decency and respect instilled in us since birth by the mainstream society in which we live. It's simply how we behave in public. For example, I always try to be nice to everyone, even passersby. However, I will go out of my way to acknowledge another nudist. Why? We've all suffered too many negative reactions, individually and collectively. It's a cultural affinity/identification/recognition.
¿
Most of us (nude or clothed) are social creatures by nature and these habits of politeness are practically universal in every human culture. The majority of us adhere to these standards. We all learn at an early age that we are accountable for our actions. Breach these guidelines and some type of consequence usually follows, be it legal, social censure or otherwise.
¿
In my humble opinion, as naturists/nudists, we have a system of values, attitudes and beliefs that distinguish and bind us as a culture. Some of these also empower us within our broader society in which we live. Yet, at the same time, we also incorporate some of the concepts and principles of the general population to enrich our life experience. I think we combine what's best from both and make it work for us.
¿
As always, your thoughts are welcome. Get naked. Enjoy!

Life is better naturally. Get naked. Enjoy!