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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: 30.06.2025 04:01

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.

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

toilets being shown

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

Your chatbot friend might be messing with your mind - The Washington Post

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

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

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

One year from World Cup opener, FIFA leaves questions unanswered on tickets and security - AP News

the display of bellybuttons

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

The ridiculous 2004 Superbowl ‘Nipplegate’ was a more recent reminder of how US attitudes have not really advanced much since the Hays code.

Man charged in shooting outside Wayzata High School graduation - kare11.com

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

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

Remember the Hays Code?

SpaceX knocks out another national security launch while ULA faces scrutiny - Yahoo

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