Skeptics, Atheists And Critical Thi
This is a group for nudists who are also skeptics, atheists and critical thinkers. In other words, its a group for nudists who base their beliefs on science and evidence, and reject beliefs based on pseudoscience or the paranormal. In practice, this means we dont believe in any gods or other supernatural beings (such as ghosts, angels or demons) because there is no compelling evidence that they...
- created by TonyKhiladi
Making a case for tolerance of nudism through Atheism in Pakistan
Return to DiscussionsBeing an atheist from Pakistan I was thinking that If at some point the rational discussion becomes easy through acceptance of atheism, we would be able to have at least some nudists friendly places in Pakistan. But that is far fetched idea at least for the time, I also realize. What do you guys opine about this?
It's an interesting point you raise about the link between religion and the non-acceptance of nudity. I suspect that a lot of people's fear and contempt for nudity stems from religious beliefs and ideas that originated in religion. The link is made between nudity and sex, and between sex and sin, and these links have religious origins. It's also interesting that it seems that the countries of northern Europe are generally the least religious and also the most accepting of public nudity. I'm sure that's not a coincidence!
Traditional societies, pre Columbian or pre colonial, have a sound religious/spiritual framework but are comfortable with nudity. Polynesians, indigenous people of the Americas as examples. But I agree that "developed" societies have strong religious foundations that are very negative about exposed bodies. We need to break through that, it requires growing consciousness, whether folks retain a religious bent or not.
As you say Alfresco, pre colonial societies had a healthier attitude to nudism. India is another good example. Prior to the arrival of the Portuguese and Dutch, followed by the English, Nudism/nudity was an accepted part of the culture going back centuries. Just look at all the Hindu and Buddhist temple art. It's interesting that Europe has begun to swing back to accepting nudity at social locations, beaches, forests, park and rivers as examples.
I grew up evangelical Christian and find that its appeal to ration and zeal can be shared by atheists, and now try to avoid black/white world views. Rather, I believe we need to reclaim our passion as individuals. This is more of an attitude than a behavior, and once we mmeasure this with external parameters and expectations, it's no longer passion. I understand the Muslim and Pakistani attitude towards nudity and even less than the US puritanism I grew up with. But I feel we all need to get back to the Garden where Adam didn't know of wearing a kaftan. In addtion, you have wonderful passion poetry of Hafez and Rumi in your tradition to claim. Good luck.
Fear is the cheapest room in the house. I would like to see you living in better conditions. - Hafez
This universe is not outside of you. Look inside yourself; everything that you want, you are already that. - Rumi