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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.

10.06.2025 01:19

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.

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

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

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

Uber announces a life-changing new feature - TheStreet

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

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

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

NTSB finds fuel leak and improperly installed parts in the engine of an airliner that caught fire - AP News

Remember the Hays Code?

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

the display of bellybuttons

Suspect in ‘King of the Hill’ actor’s death ‘immediately’ confessed: police - KTLA

toilets being shown

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

What do you think about a sister's love?

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