[twobone]

I'm not a mountain climber, but from the books I've read, the area near the summit is called the "death zone" for a reason. If you go up where you are beyond the livable atmosphere and where the temperature is enough to kill you, then you are gambling with your life.

This may be cruel, but when I read the death of these climbers as a tragedy, I ask myself...look at the odds and the risk. We should be saying that the death of these folks was unfortunate but normal course given the risks.

What probably needs more focus is the companies that guide them and the level of disclaimer. I.e....if you sign up, there is a very real risk that you will die on that mountain. They should have that discussion and probably get the acknowledgement from any spouse so that the family understands the risks being taken.

Of course Nepal is not going to cut back on the number of permits. What do they care if stupid Westerners die up on the mountain.