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 01:44
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
Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.
Dinosaurs Had More Than Just Teeth—They Had Cancer, and It’s Changing Everything - The Daily Galaxy
Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:
For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.
couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)
Which Red Sox prospect will be next to draw Roman Anthony-level excitement? - MassLive
nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)
sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.
toilets being shown
What was your most memorable combat mission during the Vietnam War?
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
any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.
Magnetic fields appear to be as old as the universe itself. What created them? - Space
Remember the Hays Code?