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 07:34

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

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)

What are some creepy bestiality-promoting questions obviously asked for sexual gratification?

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

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

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

Jon Jones facing new criminal charge over fleeing scene of car crash as he announces retirement - Yahoo Sports

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

Remember the Hays Code?

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

Gucci Owner Picks Auto Executive for One of Global Luxury’s Top Jobs - WSJ

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:

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

Big banks all pass the Federal Reserve's stress tests, but the tests were less vigorous this year - CNBC

the display of bellybuttons