Logo

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: 17.06.2025 01:16

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.

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

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

Remember the Hays Code?

Can men enjoy receiving anal sex?

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

toilets being shown

the display of bellybuttons

Why is Taylor Swift re-recording her albums?

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

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

Why are men obsessed with breasts and their size? I don't quite see women being obsessed with the penis - Why is this so?

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

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

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

Why can't my adopted sister accept she is not part of my family because she isn't related? Why can't she stop calling my parents mum and dad?

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