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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 07:34

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.

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

Remember the Hays Code?

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

Federal judge approves $2.8B settlement, paving way for US colleges to pay athletes millions - ABC News

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

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

toilets being shown

Kuorans can you write a sad story about kpop?

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

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

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

Scientists reveal the conflict-ridden history of an important biblical city - The Brighter Side of News

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.

the display of bellybuttons

Jack Betts, ‘Spider-Man’ Actor and Spaghetti Western Veteran, Dies at 96 - Variety

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