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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 01:28

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 display of bellybuttons

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

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

Is spinach easy to grow?

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.

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

Sega Throws Shade At Mario Kart While Showing Off Sonic Racing: Crossworlds - Kotaku

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

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

Dying Light: The Beast launches August 22 - Gematsu

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

Remember the Hays Code?

What can melt your heart?

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