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.

08.06.2025 00:00

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.

Remember the Hays Code?

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

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

What do you think of casting Emma Watson as the next James Bond?

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

toilets being shown

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

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max: The Best View Yet Of New Design Just Leaked - Forbes

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

the display of bellybuttons

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

What is your juiciest sex story?

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

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

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

Has anyone ever read The Holy Bible completely through? If so, what was your overall impression of it?

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