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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.

11.06.2025 10:00

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

Remember the Hays Code?

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

Shortcuts is getting an AI-powered revamp; here’s what that could mean - 9to5Mac

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

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

toilets being shown

How I’ll Remember Edmund White - Vulture

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

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.

What are the pros and cons of a prospective bride/groom not having any siblings?

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

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

Race and genetics do not line up well, new study confirms - Live Science

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