If you lose 10 lives to save one is that worth it?
On the surface, I agree that this is simple algebra. But it's not that easy.
Is the break-even point at losing one life to save another life -- where one life needs to be sacrificed in order to redeem one life, that would otherwise be lost?
Would I be willing to be forced to give up my life that yours might be saved? Would I accept the condition that for my life to be saved, yours must be taken in a way and at a time stiffly and justly resisted by yourself?
For numbers in the equation, think of the conundrum posed in the story of "Saving Private Ryan," a squad lost in saving him, and take it from there.