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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 01:05

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

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

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

Forgotten in a collection, the discovery of this fossil presents a real problem for scientists as it doesn't belong to any known living family. - Farmingdale Observer

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

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

The Opener: Teel, Cubs, Tigers, Langeliers - MLB Trade Rumors

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

toilets being shown

Remember the Hays Code?

After Losing Their Fortune to Bernie Madoff, Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick Turn It Around With Real Estate Investments - Yahoo

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

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

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

Wall Street’s big rally stalls following some discouraging economic data - AP News

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