I don't think this is much of a reason, since Yuri itself isn't referring to just the "sweet I-love-you" scenes. It's supposed
to overstep that boundary and go right into physical contact. Otherwise it'd just be classified as Shoujo Ai, so the fans
wouldn't be called 'Yuri fans', but 'Shoujo Ai fans' instead. Much like how-
Shounen Ai = Does not overstep the boundary into physical contact(except for a kiss or so)
Yaoi = Oversteps the boundary right into sex and that sorta stuff.
I agree with this point.
If you're looking for something hardcore, anime may not be the best place to find it. Manga could cater to wider tastes, methinks.
Also, if it's severe gore/violence, then I guess the taboo against hitting/mutilating women comes into play.
It seems that the genre is more likely to focus on the relationships than the actual sex. I'm generalizing here [so please don't throw potatoes at me or anything D: ] but I think that people expect Yaoi to have a more sexual focus, while in Yuri more attention is given to the character dynamics. By virtue of their gender and appearance [read: bewbs], female characters are more easily sexualized, so sex scenes can take place in the reader's mind instead, which teases [and probably frustrates] the readers who want more, while not offending those who have milder tastes.
Is watching two women kissing that controversial? So why is it that it's a no problem watching two guys kissing?
:-> Just wondering..
The concept of bromance also plays a role, I guess. I mean, two guys kissing is a commonly used gag. Two girls kissing has a more serious air to it, and is more often sexualized than made into a joke.
Just my two cents.
:3