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.
10.06.2025 03:01
any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.
sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.
For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.
toilets being shown
disrespect of authority figures. Crooked judges are OK if they are also clearly portrayed as evil people
Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:
Why do you think Filipinos are conservatives?
the display of bellybuttons
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)
Man charged in shooting outside Wayzata High School graduation - kare11.com
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.
lustful kissing is to be shown with care
Capivasertib given to breast cancer patients in Wales for first time - BBC
Remember the Hays Code?