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: 28.06.2025 02:21
Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.
Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:
Remember the Hays Code?
Will Canadians still buy American products?
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.
the display of bellybuttons
Neuroscientists find individual differences in memory response to amygdala stimulation - PsyPost
any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.
lustful kissing is to be shown with care
disrespect of authority figures. Crooked judges are OK if they are also clearly portrayed as evil people
Where in Maine are you most likely to get a dangerous tick bite? - The Portland Press Herald
couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)
For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.
sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.
nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)