Nudity

Nudity refers to the state of not wearing clothes or the exposure of the human body. It encompasses full nudity (exposure of genitals and breasts or male equivalents) and partial nudity (exposed buttocks or cleavage without genitals). The terms nude and naked are used in different ways; some uses emphasize natural state, others social or artistic contexts.

Cultural variation: Attitudes toward nudity vary widely by culture, religion, and era. Some societies treat nudity as inherently private; others integrate it into daily life, ritual, or art. Media, fashion, and tourism influence norms and perceptions.

Contexts and regulation: Nudity appears in art, theater, film, and online media, with distinctions among artistic nudity, erotic nudity, and pornographic material. Legal rules regulate where and how nudity can be shown, including public spaces, broadcast standards, and age restrictions. Child protection laws prohibit sexual content involving minors; platforms apply age verification and content moderation.

Movements and communities: Naturism or nudism advocate social nudity in designated spaces and consider it compatible with healthy living. Other groups contest nudity in public or commercial contexts. Body image discussions address how exposure affects self-perception and societal standards.