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: 02.07.2025 15:58

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.

the display of bellybuttons

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

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

Listen to the eerie sounds of Mars recorded by a NASA rover - Mashable

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

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

Horoscope for Monday, June 09, 2025 - Chicago Sun-Times

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.

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

Waiting for a Buyer's Market? These Top 10 Metros Offer the Biggest Price Cuts—and Booming Inventory - Realtor.com

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.

toilets being shown

When an Air India flight crashed into a medical campus, surviving doctors rushed to save lives - Politico

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