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: 03.07.2025 04:24
Remember the Hays Code?
nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)
For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.
Texas, Oklahoma and Nevada make changes to lure business amid Delaware’s ‘Dexit’ concern - AP News
lustful kissing is to be shown with care
The ridiculous 2004 Superbowl ‘Nipplegate’ was a more recent reminder of how US attitudes have not really advanced much since the Hays code.
toilets being shown
Top Federal Reserve official promises major overhaul of US bank regulation - Financial Times
Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:
disrespect of authority figures. Crooked judges are OK if they are also clearly portrayed as evil people
Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.
How do I convince flat earthers that the earth is round?
couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)
any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.
the display of bellybuttons
How do you recognize when your mental health might need attention?
sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.