Nude Dancing and Censorship
Nude dancing, encompassing a range of performances from burlesque to go-go dancing, has been a subject of ongoing debate in the United States, where it intersects with issues of censorship, artistic expression, and morality. Historically, dance has played a significant role across cultures, often featuring nudity, yet in many societies, it has faced scrutiny, particularly from religious groups concerned about its potential to undermine moral values. Proponents of nude dancing argue that it serves as a vital outlet for artistic and personal expression, particularly for women, framing censorship as a feminist issue tied to First Amendment rights. Conversely, critics contend that such performances can objectify women and contribute to societal issues like exploitation and sexual violence, viewing censorship as a protective measure for vulnerable individuals.
The evolution of nude dancing, especially in late 20th century America, has led to a proliferation of adult entertainment venues, reflecting a complex interplay between public acceptance and regulatory restrictions. Despite the controversies, surveys indicate a growing acceptance of nudity, suggesting that while the practice may provoke strong opinions, it also holds a significant place in contemporary culture. The ongoing discourse around nude dancing highlights the diverse perspectives surrounding issues of freedom, expression, and societal values, making it a rich topic for exploration.
Subject Terms
Nude Dancing and Censorship
Definition: Public dancing for purposes of entertainment, or artistic or religious expression, in a state of undress
Significance: Nude and topless dancing have long been subject to censorship
In the United States nude dancing in public places has drawn debate by pitting the First Amendment rights of free expression against the impact of such personal expressions on society. Dance involving full or partial nudity, or less clothing than is ordinarily worn, has been nearly universal in human cultures. It has been subject to censorship as well, often by religious authorities who fear that dance’s sensuality will corrupt the morals of those who practice it or view it.
In the United States such practices have drawn intense debate. From the Puritans observing Native American ceremonial dance, to early twentieth century critics observing modern dance, to priests or parents protesting go-go bars in their neighborhoods, dance involving nudity has been scrutinized ardently. For some, it has provided avenues for entertainment, artistic expression, and even religious practice. For others, such dance is only a challenge to moral and religious beliefs about obscenity and sexuality.
Traditionally, dance has been primarily a female activity and thus has had a marginally valued role in society. Despite the skills and prowess dance requires, it has never gained the respect of similar activities practiced predominantly by men, such as athletics. As such, some advocates of nude and topless dancing argue that censorship of this activity is an effort to control the expression of women. From this perspective, censorship becomes a feminist issue involving First Amendment rights with implications generalizing to artistic, religious, and sexual expression. In contrast, some opponents of nude and topless dancing argue that it demeans women by objectifying them sexually. They suggest that the act of paying women to disrobe in public heightens the vulnerability of women everywhere and is an act of domination by men. Dancers are seen as victims forced to participate in this practice as a function of their vulnerable position in society. Thus, these opponents see censorship as an act which protects women from exploitation.
Still others have argued that nude and topless dancing are obscene practices that encourage immoral behavior. The impact of such practices on society is viewed as debasing and far outweighs the value that such self-expression or employment could provide for any individual. Such opponents link dance involving nudity to prostitution, pornography, sexual abuse, and alcohol and drug problems. It is seen as a pathway to morally repugnant practices involving impulsiveness, indulgence, and exploitation.
Known as burlesque, strip, exotic, go-go, nude, topless, bottomless, booth, striptease, and erotic dance, this cultural practice expanded in late twentieth century America. “Gentleman’s clubs” and adult entertainment businesses featuring nude dance have increased in number to the point where they are represented on the stock market. Further, surveys as late as 1992 have indicated increasing acceptance of nudity by the public and the government. While restrictions exist insofar as the contexts in which such performances can be held (for example, behind glass walls, in adult-only settings, or with limits to alcohol sales), this practice appears to have found a stronghold despite its controversies.