I think you're misunderstanding the GP. He's not saying the people aren't valuable; he's saying they aren't assets. That is to say, they aren't property. Which

I think you're misunderstanding the GP. He's not saying the people aren't valuable; he's saying they aren't assets. That is to say, they aren't property. Which isn't what 'asset' means, but it is the central meaning; using it on people always felt squicky to me.