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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: 22.06.2025 04:22

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)

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

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

Why doesn't California have the tools, people, means to put out these fires even though they know there will be fires every year?

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

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

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

Chicago Bears offense has 94-yard TD drive in 2 minute drill at minicamp - Windy City Gridiron

the display of bellybuttons

Remember the Hays Code?

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

I own a small solar company in Montana and might have to lay off most of my employees. I'm not hiding that from them. - Business Insider

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

toilets being shown

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

The closer a volcano is to erupting, the greener the trees around it look from space - Live Science

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