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: 23.06.2025 01:38

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.

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

‘Materialists’ Production Designer and Set Decorator Estimate How Much Rent Each Character Pays for Their NYC Apartment - Variety

Remember the Hays Code?

toilets being shown

the display of bellybuttons

Is it considered rude to comment on someone's weight? Is it simply stating a fact?

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

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

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

Target and Walmart tariff price hikes leak online from an unlikely source - Mashable

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

Elon Musk posts throwback to SpaceX’s garage days after the 500th Falcon rocket launch; his caption reads - Times of India

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