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 17:53

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.

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

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

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

Cooper Flagg has ‘the whole basketball world here at the tip of his fingers.’ Newport, Maine, couldn’t be prouder. - The Boston Globe

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

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

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

Top prospects for 2025 Draft arrive in Buffalo for Scouting Combine - NHL.com

toilets being shown

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

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

Packers waive receiver, open up roster spot - Acme Packing Company

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

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

Remember the Hays Code?

Saturday Citations: Reality vs. imagination; rhinos vs. poachers; mathematics vs. the Big Bang - Phys.org

the display of bellybuttons