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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: 17.06.2025 23:59

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.

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

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

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

Which fish tastes good for South Indian curries?

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

toilets being shown

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

What is the difference between "eher" and " lieber" in German? Are the two synonyms? If yes, then which one is the most used?

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

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

Remember the Hays Code?

Are Indian youths conservative or liberal?

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

the display of bellybuttons

Do snipers lay on top of tank turrets during combat?

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