All lives are equal, but all fears aren't. Since we pass laws for the benefit of humans, it is fitting and proper to consider what they fear in the cost assessm

All lives are equal, but all fears aren't. Since we pass laws for the benefit of humans, it is fitting and proper to consider what they fear in the cost assessment. The ultra-rational approach you describe might appeal to the HN crowd, but there's nothing wrong with noticing what kinds of laws make us feel safer and preferring them. Fear affects lives. Fear matters. Why wouldn't it?