politics aside, people have worn masks for decades in asia. it's better for your health in crowded areas with lots of car exhaust. it's also a courtesy to not make other people sick if you have a cold and to not get sick in crowds of people. doctors do the same for the same reason, especially in operating rooms.
afaic, i don't want your covid or your cold. wear a fucking mask if you're going in public. have some respect for others.
that said, there are some *bonus* reasons to wear a mask, especially now since it's commonplace. a principle one is to protect your privacy from facial scanning (biometric surveillance) cameras in parking lots, stores, public areas, protests etc.
