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: 01.07.2025 18:00

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.

toilets being shown

Remember the Hays Code?

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

Quantum Vacuum Breakthrough: Oxford Physicists Make Light Emerge From “Nothing” - SciTechDaily

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

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

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

Trump signs proclamation banning travel from 12 countries - ABC News

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

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

Adipisci omnis dolor vitae nulla explicabo tenetur.

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

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

the display of bellybuttons

Parkgoers See Two Ducks Swimming Together — Then Realize One Is In Danger - The Dodo - For Animal People

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