It seems that one’s position on masks, vaccines, gun laws, global warming, etc is largely tied to whether they see themselves first as an individual or as a member of a collective.

To expand on this: we are all both individuals AND members of a whole. My anecdotal observation is that which one you identify with MORE determines many of these positions.

There are many positives to the American sense of rugged individualism, and blind collectivism can lead to entire societies being controlled to dubious ends. And, we as individuals should have the freedom to protect our own interests or the interests of others. But...

I tend to side with Jesus on this one. Individuals making sacrifices for the whole leads to things being better for everyone (which includes individuals).