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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: 23.06.2025 09:04

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

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

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

Remember the Hays Code?

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

One day, I happened to walk past where my crush was with friends. Then all of a sudden they start laughing, and someone maybe him, goes "freaking (my name) with her freaking hair!" Can anyone offer insights into this? We're in middle school.

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.

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

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

toilets being shown

the display of bellybuttons

Kyle Busch, Josh Berry go sliding in practice at Nashville - NASCAR.com

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