7 people died today in the exploration of space. People have died before, and will probably die again. Our resolve should not waiver, when compared to the great wars of the present and past the death toll of exploration pales in comparison while the benefits tower. The motivations for war are base and small, shortsighted and violent; while those for exploration are the embodiment of the best attributes in humanity; curiosity, cooperation, diligence, the betterment and continuation of man.
To sit in our comfortable homes, or behind that news-desk, or in congress and say that we should rethink manned space-flight is a disservice to those who have given their lives. Do you not think they know it is dangerous? These people that died today, and on Challenger, and on the Apollo tests do not think that their job is safe and risk-free, they are willing to risk their lives for a greater good. If they are not willing to walk away from this pursuit, even at the risk of their own lives, then it is not your place to voice your lack of vision in a contemptible attempt to gain popularity, support, or to spur debate.