Logo

Why do Americans and foreigners alike describe the USA as prudish? Why do I see nothing prudish about the USA society? USA feels like one of the loosest countries although Americans claim to be very reserved.

Last Updated: 29.06.2025 02:03

Why do Americans and foreigners alike describe the USA as prudish? Why do I see nothing prudish about the USA society? USA feels like one of the loosest countries although Americans claim to be very reserved.

toilets being shown

The ridiculous 2004 Superbowl ‘Nipplegate’ was a more recent reminder of how US attitudes have not really advanced much since the Hays code.

Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:

Measles in Alabama? Officials investigating possible case that would be state’s first in years - AL.com

couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)

For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.

Remember the Hays Code?

Is it possible for doctors to diagnose prostate cancer just by looking at a patient?

nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)

the display of bellybuttons

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

How does it feel to be in a marriage without any love?

Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.

disrespect of authority figures. Crooked judges are OK if they are also clearly portrayed as evil people

any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.

10 quotes about science’s value to society - Big Think

sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.