The Rice Purity Test - Original English Version

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Question 1/100
Have you ever held hands romantically?

What is the Rice Purity Test?

The Rice Purity Test is a self-graded survey that assesses the participants' supposed innocence in worldly matters, particularly with respect to their sexual experiences, substance use, deceit, and criminal activity. A score of 100% is the highest level of purity, while a score of 0% would indicate complete and total debauchery.

Originally created in the 1980s at Rice University in Houston, Texas, the test was designed as an icebreaker for freshmen orientation. The survey has since evolved and spread widely across college campuses throughout the United States and globally. Today, it exists in various iterations and has become a popular online quiz that people take to gauge their life experiences.

What distinguishes the original English version of the purity test is its comprehensive nature and cultural relevance to American college experiences. The test consists of 100 questions covering various categories such as:

  • Romance and Sexuality: Questions about romantic encounters, dating, and sexual experiences.
  • Substance Use: Questions about alcohol, tobacco, and other substances.
  • Legal/Illegal Activities: Questions about rule-breaking and encounters with authorities.
  • Social Behavior: Questions about social interactions and personal choices.

Average Purity Scores by Age

Age Group Average Score Sample Size
17-19 76% 12,500
20-22 62% 18,700
23-25 54% 9,300
26-30 48% 5,600
31+ 45% 3,200

Based on anonymous data from 49,300 test takers between 2018-2023.

Historical Context and Evolution

1980s

Origins at Rice University

The original Rice Purity Test was created at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Initially distributed on paper, the test was administered to incoming freshmen during orientation week as both an icebreaker and a way to gauge the worldly experience of students at the conservative-leaning institution.

1990s

Spreading to Other Campuses

The test began to spread to other American universities, often modified to fit the culture of each specific campus. Different versions emerged with varying numbers of questions and content focus, though the core concept remained the same: quantifying "purity" through a series of yes/no questions about life experiences.

Early 2000s

Digital Transition

With the rise of the internet, the Rice Purity Test found a new home online. The official version was hosted on the Rice University website, making it accessible to people worldwide. This digital transition significantly increased its popularity beyond college campuses.

2010s

Social Media Era

The test gained renewed popularity with the rise of social media. Taking the test and sharing results became a trend among young adults. Various websites and apps created their own versions, ranging from the standard 100-question format to abbreviated or expanded variants.

Present Day

Global Phenomenon

Today, the Rice Purity Test has transcended its American college origins to become a global cultural phenomenon. It has been translated into numerous languages, including French, and continues to evolve with changing social norms while maintaining its core purpose of measuring life experiences.

English vs. French Purity Test: Cultural Differences

The original Rice Purity Test from the United States and its French adaptation reflect different cultural attitudes and societal norms. Below is a comparison highlighting key differences between the two versions.

🇺🇸 English Version

  • 100 questions in the standard format
  • Heavier emphasis on specifically American college experiences (fraternity/sorority activities, dorm life)
  • More questions about alcohol use, reflecting the 21+ drinking age
  • References to American legal system and cultural institutions
  • More questions about religious behaviors and beliefs
  • Direct approach to sexual content questions

🇫🇷 French Version

  • Often adapted to 75 or 100 questions depending on the variant
  • More questions about intellectual experiences and philosophical views
  • Different emphasis on alcohol and wine culture, reflecting different drinking age laws
  • References to French educational system and institutions
  • Fewer religion-specific questions, reflecting more secular society
  • More nuanced approach to romantic relationships

🇺🇸 American Context

The original Rice Purity Test reflects American campus culture, particularly the contrast between conservative institutional values and the experimental nature of college life. The test often serves as a tongue-in-cheek challenge to traditional American values while acknowledging their presence.

In American culture, the test often functions as a way to bond through shared transgression of societal norms, making it particularly popular during freshman orientation when students are forming new social connections.

🇫🇷 French Context

The French adaptation reflects a culture that often has different attitudes toward topics like sexuality, alcohol consumption, and personal freedom. French society generally approaches these topics with less emphasis on abstinence and more on responsible enjoyment.

In France, the test is often treated more as a curiosity or entertaining social activity rather than a genuine measure of moral purity, reflecting the generally more secular nature of French society.

How Scores Are Typically Interpreted

American Interpretation
French Interpretation