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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: 28.06.2025 17:21

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.

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

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

What’s the worst thing you caught anyone in your family doing?

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

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

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

Inside the first official barefoot hiking park in the US - SFGATE

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

Remember the Hays Code?

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

Why The Simpsons stopped producing Maude Flanders episodes?

the display of bellybuttons

toilets being shown

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

Astros Announce Major Trade With Rays After Yordan Alvarez News - Athlon Sports

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