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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.

14.06.2025 10:52

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.

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

the display of bellybuttons

We white women don't like white men. Do you have any issue with that?

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

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

As an atheist don't you really feel fear for committing sins which are not violating national laws?

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

Remember the Hays Code?

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

How did you cope when someone you love, dealing with hyper-independence and trauma, felt they needed space to heal alone? Were you able to support them without overstepping, and did you eventually reconnect? How did that journey unfold?

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.

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

Why would my husband cheat on me with an ugly fat woman?

toilets being shown