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: 22.06.2025 05:50
nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)
any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.
The ridiculous 2004 Superbowl ‘Nipplegate’ was a more recent reminder of how US attitudes have not really advanced much since the Hays code.
The Fastest Speed That Humans Have Traveled Is 39,937.7 Kilometers Per Hour - IFLScience
Remember the Hays Code?
lustful kissing is to be shown with care
couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)
Dakota Johnson Uses Tissue to Cover Cleavage Amid Wardrobe Malfunction - Yahoo
toilets being shown
sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.
For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.
disrespect of authority figures. Crooked judges are OK if they are also clearly portrayed as evil people
the display of bellybuttons
Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:
Voyager IPO: Stock Rockets 84% Higher in Trading Debut - Barron's
Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.