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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.

11.06.2025 02:01

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.

Remember the Hays Code?

the display of bellybuttons

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

Do women wear undies under leggings?

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

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

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

32-Year-Old Mom's Freckle Turns Into 'Terrifying' Diagnosis. Now She Fears Leaving Her Toddler Behind - AOL.com

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)

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

Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady breaks down after heavy pitching load in Women's College World Series - AP News

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

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

toilets being shown

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner ousts Novak Djokovic from Roland Garros to set up title clash with defending champ Carlos Alcaraz - CNN

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