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 17:35

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.

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

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.

India to Open Flagship EV Making Policy to Lure Global Giants - Bloomberg

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

the display of bellybuttons

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

Why hasn't Japan legalized same-sex marriage?

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

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

Remember the Hays Code?

How come Taiwan is LGBT friendly, yet Japan and South Korea are not?

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

toilets being shown

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

Kanye West Shows Up At Sean 'Diddy' Combs’ Trial—And Quickly Leaves - Forbes

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