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 02:40

toilets being shown
couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)
any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.
Department of Homeland Security lists Buncombe County as 'sanctuary jurisdiction' - WLOS
The ridiculous 2004 Superbowl ‘Nipplegate’ was a more recent reminder of how US attitudes have not really advanced much since the Hays code.
Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.
sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.
Kristopher Mohamed needs help to fund cancer fight - Trinidad and Tobago Newsday
For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.
disrespect of authority figures. Crooked judges are OK if they are also clearly portrayed as evil people
lustful kissing is to be shown with care
Firefly's Blue Ghost On Moon Seen By Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter - MSN
the display of bellybuttons
nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)
Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:
Why Mets are positioned to fare better than Yankees in latest Dodgers series - New York Post
Remember the Hays Code?