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: 17.06.2025 00:40

Remember the Hays Code?
couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)
The ridiculous 2004 Superbowl ‘Nipplegate’ was a more recent reminder of how US attitudes have not really advanced much since the Hays code.
What trains transport cars and passengers near Pompano Beach, Florida that goes to New York?
any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.
lustful kissing is to be shown with care
the display of bellybuttons
nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)
sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.
disrespect of authority figures. Crooked judges are OK if they are also clearly portrayed as evil people
How does the narcissist react when he realizes you no longer care?
For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.
Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.
Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:
The Club World Cup is finally up and running — and soccer may never be the same - AP News
toilets being shown