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 08:45
Remember the Hays Code?
the display of bellybuttons
Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.
nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)
toilets being shown
sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.
Pedro Sánchez torpedoes Nato unity on eve of crucial summit - Financial Times
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.
For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.
Is parental involvement in their daughters' marriages beneficial? Why or why not?
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
couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)
How do military families balance personal political views with respect for civilian leadership?
any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.