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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: 21.06.2025 00:43

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.

toilets being shown

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

What sorts of music do cats respond to?

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

Remember the Hays Code?

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

What is the best sex you have ever had (in detail)?

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

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

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

I have a black elbow sleeve leotard that I wear with sheer pantyhose. Should I keep my pants off and show my legs?

the display of bellybuttons

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

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

A child had measles at Mall of America, concerning state health officials who don’t know source - Star Tribune

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