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I'm not sure it's population density or at least not that alone. There are parts of the West with comparably high densities, especially in large cities, and co
by micv 10y ago
I'm not sure it's population density or at least not that alone. There are parts of the West with comparably high densities, especially in large cities, and covering your face is generally frowned upon.
I suspect that the cultural focus on cleanliness has a lot to do with it, but given that it's Hacker News there may be someone with a more exact idea of the origin.
- mistermann 10y agoAllergies is one major motivator.
- DasIch 10y agoAllergies should be a good reason not do that, at least from a public health perspective.
- plaguuuuuu 10y agoYou wear one if you're sick. So that you don't get other people sick basically. Contrast with my experience in Sydney, where catching the bus during flu season is bloody hazardous. Being coughed and sneezed on gets old quickly, so I totally understand the surgical mask thing; it's a basic courtesy.
- eru 10y agoYes. Though I am not sure if it's actually effective, or only a superficial courtesy.