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: 30.06.2025 03:08

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.

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

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

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

Jennie Garth 'Never Felt More Confident' as She Poses In First Underwear Photoshoot at 53 - TooFab

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

toilets being shown

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

CVS closing 271 stores, including 3 locations in Upstate NY - Syracuse.com

the display of bellybuttons

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

American Airlines sent a plane from the US to Italy that was too big for its destination airport and wasn't allowed to land - Business Insider

Remember the Hays Code?

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

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

Proposed NASA cuts to space science: “Staggering” - EarthSky

lustful kissing is to be shown with care