One practical reason - the rise of the surveillance state and its technology is certainly a reason. everyone can be identified now, and 20 years from now.
But combined with that and multiplying that fear of detection, people are far more amoral. They lack any moral grounding and thus have no courage of their convictions. Many people are brave only within a mob. People who believe they know "truth" do not hide themselves. Christian martyrs are the ultimate example
That's a good point.
“Nor has it reached the criminal elements. Masking to hide identity has become NORMALIZED.”
After the mask fad had passed I noticed a sign on my bank’s entrance saying ‘No masks.’ It was from before covid when it wasn’t legal to wear a mask anywhere you wanted.
It’s not surprising looters and leftist protesters kept it in fashion. Like a badge of expression that also helps them avoid being accountable.