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: 28.06.2025 00:51
the display of bellybuttons
couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)
Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:
nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)
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.
Lake Tahoe: 'The water was just screaming,' says witness of boat tragedy that killed eight - BBC
any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.
disrespect of authority figures. Crooked judges are OK if they are also clearly portrayed as evil people
sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.
Salmonella outbreak linked to California egg distributor sickens 79 people - NPR
Remember the Hays Code?
For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.
toilets being shown
Copilot Vision brings Microsoft's screen-watching AI to everyday Windows tasks - TechSpot
lustful kissing is to be shown with care