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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: 20.06.2025 03:31

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.

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.

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

Why do guys look up TikTok girls instead of porn? My boyfriend of two years, looks up big boobs on TikTok. He has never once cheated on me, not on social media or IRL. He claims it’s to “get off real quick if I’m not home.”

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

the display of bellybuttons

toilets being shown

What happens when you need emergency surgery in countries with universal healthcare vs the US?

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

Why is my elder sister so mean?

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

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

What are the best self-care practices to improve mental health?

Remember the Hays Code?