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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: 26.06.2025 11:01

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.

the display of bellybuttons

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

She was a Disney star with platinum records, but Bridgit Mendler gave it up to change the world - Ars Technica

toilets being shown

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

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

NY Federal Reserve finds a 'significant share' of companies saying they raised prices on goods not affected by tariffs - Fortune

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

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

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

Debunking 5 myths about when your devices get wet - The Conversation

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

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

Remember the Hays Code?

Why prostate cancer screenings matter — what Utah men should know - KSL News

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