> HN is heavily-populated or at least influenced by subcultures (Bay Area, tech) that have been religiously adherent to the appearance of compliance and performative self-abnegation as a response to the pandemic (like a milder version of the Flagellants during the Black Death).

Spot on. Some people like following rules, and lording their compliance over others. None of this precludes the goodness of following pandemic rules, however.