Masks definitely increase the spread of stupidity.
It is an unfortunate propensity of people to think that following rules keeps them safe because the rules are made by people with superior knowledge & no ulterior motives.
IOW Sheep-like behavior
Iconoclasm has it’s benefits. I always assume the people spouting dictum are wrong and research for a scientific basis, usually absent. Masks are a flagrant abuse of authority. There has been no proof they have any beneficial effect. Especially any beneficial effect that outweighs the known negative effects.
As you said, masks definitely increase the spread of stupidity. People need to learn to reason & research not just act from fear and obedience to authority.