Masks Offer a Public Health Benefit. They Also Can Be Used for Evil.
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Colleagues:
The underlying dichotomy of our world is that everything that can be used for good can also be used for bad. The greater the potential for good, the greater the potential for bad. Nuclear energy can generate power for electricity, or it can be used as a bomb. Rain can help grow our food plants, or too much rain can overflow our rivers and flood our cities.
Consider a medical mask. Used properly, they can protect the wearer from contagion, and protect bystanders from those who are otherwise contagious. Indeed, MSSNY has a strong policy (Resolution 166 from HOD 2024) in favor of evidence-based use of medical masks for “promotion of preventive or mitigation measures” for the good of the public health. However, masks can also be used to hide one’s identity while committing crimes.
Recently, Governor Hochul has proposed banning masks on subways because of acts of anti-Semitic harassment by mask-wearing mobs. As reported by the NY Post, the Governor has also proposed carve-outs to allow immuno-compromised riders and those with medical conditions to wear their masks to protect themselves and the public at large. We applaud the Governor for considering these public health needs, as this is consistent with MSSNY policy.
We note however that it would be difficult to both enforce a mask-ban and simultaneously determine who is allowed to wear a mask. One potential solution is to mandate the use of masks that have transparent plastic in front that would both offer protection and allow video identification of the user. Another solution would be to allow the use of masks but make it a criminal offense if a mask is used during the commission of a crime. These solutions need not be mutually exclusive.
I have one more thought to leave you with. I used to wonder how Darth Vader ate with his mask on, then I realized that he must be force fed.
All the best,
Jerome C. Cohen, MD
MSSNY President
