The article addresses the alarming trend of dehumanization that occurs when human life and health are not prioritized through efficient and timely measures. It highlights that in the quest to mitigate perceived risks, decisions often result in punitive actions against innocents, impacting not only individuals but families and entire communities. For instance, the article suggests that during migrant raids, young children are detained to coerce parents into compliance, and military actions such as bombings target hospitals and shelters, leading to further suffering among the vulnerable.

Furthermore, the piece condemns the political and religious 'orthodoxies' that hinder progress in addressing these issues. It specifically mentions the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas on Israel that resulted in significant casualties and hostages, emphasizing the need for condemnation of such violence while acknowledging that retaliatory actions can exacerbate the cycle of dehumanization. The article cites UNICEF's reports on the humanitarian impact of these military responses, illustrating the collateral damage inflicted upon innocent civilians.

The broader implications of this dehumanization are profound, suggesting that as societies become desensitized to violence and suffering, the cycle of retaliation and punishment continues unabated. The call to 'humanize humans' serves as a reminder of the essential need for compassion and effective dialogue in conflict resolution to promote a more humane society that truly values every life.