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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: 24.06.2025 01:25

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.

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

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

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

If Iran’s Oil Is Cut Off, China Will Pay the Price - WSJ

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

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

For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.

'Look At That! Come On!': White Sox Announcer Incensed Over Benches-Clearing Rundown - Sports Illustrated

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.

toilets being shown

Miley Cyrus Reveals What Caused Her Estrangement from Dad Billy Ray for the First Time - instyle.com

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

the display of bellybuttons

any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.

What role did China play in the signing of the "Beijing Declaration" between Fatah and Hamas? What other information is worth noting for talks among Palestinian factions in Beijing?

Remember the Hays Code?