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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 12:18

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)

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

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

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

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

‘Strawberry Moon’ June 2025: See The Lowest Full Moon Since 2006 - Forbes

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

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

the display of bellybuttons

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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

Remember the Hays Code?

Research roundup: Ping-pong bots, the genetic key for ginger cats, and more - Ars Technica

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