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: 26.06.2025 07:52
Remember the Hays Code?
nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)
any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.
Does the Lil Wayne song ‘Lollipop’ refers to a Lollipop sweet or a metaphor?
sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.
toilets being shown
Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.
Good news, bad news for NASCAR Cup teams ahead of Mexico City weekend - NBC Sports
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
Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:
Witness testifies that Diddy dangled her over a balcony - BBC
disrespect of authority figures. Crooked judges are OK if they are also clearly portrayed as evil people
couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)
lustful kissing is to be shown with care
For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.