What are your thoughts on nudity? A new study reveals what Europeans really think about being naked, and the results might surprise you.
I have always thought people should be free to do whatever brings them joy, life is far too short to police anyone else’s fun. If you fancy a bit of naked sunbathing, more power to you! I admire the confidence. I will just be over here, appreciating your freedom from a tactful distance!
A new YouGov survey has compared views on public nudity in six European countries, Britain, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, and the results show just how differently we all feel about being in the buff. The numbers vary, but one thing stands out. Our comfort level has far more to do with culture and climate than any sort of deep moral view.
Across Europe, most people are relaxed about nudity in the places that are meant for it. More than 80% say that being naked on a nudist beach or at a specific nudist site is perfectly fine. Step outside those designated spots though, and the approval rate drops. Around 87% to 95% say nudity in parks or swimming pools is a definite no, and even ordinary beaches are off the list for most people. Denmark is the only exception.
Being naked in Europe: Daring Danes
The Danes do not seem troubled in the slightest. Nearly two thirds think skinny dipping is acceptable, and more than half say they have been naked in public at least once as adults. Meanwhile, only a quarter of Britons admit to doing the same. The difference says a lot about British shyness and the fact that most of the lakes feel like liquid ice!
Germany, once famous for its love of the free body culture, seems to be slowing down on the idea. Older Germans are more positive about nudity than younger ones, which suggests that what was once a bold statement of freedom is now viewed with a bit of awkwardness. Spain and Denmark on the other hand remain very relaxed about it all, possibly because sunshine helps everyone feel braver.
When it comes to women going topless at the beach, the familiar divide appears. In Spain and Denmark, most women are not bothered either way. In Britain and Germany, women are almost split down the middle, showing that equal rights do not always lead to equal comfort. Men, as usual, are much more enthusiastic, although their reasons may not be progressive ones!
