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 21:36

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.

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

Remember the Hays Code?

Hundreds of Mysterious Giant Viruses Discovered Lurking in The Ocean - ScienceAlert

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

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

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

Enhanced Box Score: Phillies 4, Cubs 3 – June 9, 2025 - Bleacher Nation

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

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.

‘We’re right at the epicenter’ - Meduza

the display of bellybuttons

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

toilets being shown

Diabetes drug shows benefits for patients with liver disease - Medical Xpress

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