This podcast examines the ethical complexities of assigning value to human life, particularly in the context of disaster risk management. It argues that despite the inherent moral difficulties, quantifying the value of life is necessary for making difficult decisions over the allocation of scarce resources. This often involves applying frameworks like the Value of Statistical Life (VSL) or Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) to weigh costs against potential benefits. However, the inherent biases of such approaches, particularly the potential for undervaluing lives in low-income countries, is recognised. Ultimately, the need to acknowledge the ethical limitations of quantifying human life is acknowledged while at the same time recognizing its practical necessity for effective disaster planning.