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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 00:00

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 display of bellybuttons

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

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

Planetarium’s discovery about outer solar system shocks astronomers - South China Morning Post

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

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

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

Tesla Moves To Block City Of Austin From Releasing Robotaxi Information - CleanTechnica

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

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

Nintendo Switch 2: The Ars Technica review - Ars Technica

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

Remember the Hays Code?

toilets being shown

Gooner game of the year Stellar Blade's mods are 41% smut, ensuring gamers will never see the light of heaven - PC Gamer

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