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 18:49

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.

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

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.

Rob Thomson ejected, Luzardo roughed up against Brewers - Phillies Nation

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

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

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

Is marijuana bad for you?

toilets being shown

Remember 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.

Why is social media so anti-fee speech, and have they become total BS?

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

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

Why did Meghan become a Hollywood actress before marrying into royalty? Was this against protocol and tradition for future royals who marry into the UK monarchy?

the display of bellybuttons