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: 02.07.2025 07:32

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.

lustful kissing is to be shown with care

toilets being shown

My girlfriend told me that she wants to move in with me. I have my own apartment and I like my peace and quiet, but I also love her. We've been together for a year now. What should I do?

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

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

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

Why cant I ever fall asleep with my boyfriend?

the display of bellybuttons

Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.

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

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

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.

Can you fly an American flag in the UK in your own private property there? What is the UK’s government stance on that? And if yes, do you also have to fly the UK flag or the American flag can fly solo?

Remember the Hays Code?

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