Can you show me the numbers? The actual figures?

First, see below.

Second, yes indeed, we can make an analogy. Do you remember when AA pilots were refusing to work a flight due to deferable maintenance issues (like overhead reading lights being burned out) that in no way threatened the safety of the flight? There is a risk-benefit analysis to everything and the aircraft may not be in perfect shape before flying if that leads to a result deemed even worse...fundamental issues of safety are never left in doubt but you cannot reduce "maintenance" to safety in every instance (versus convenience).

No one is forgetting that these are human beings, dear people with dignity. this is really not about that at all, as fumje rightly points out.

Then you can appreciate my side as well...I'm making the same argument, though apparently not so artfully.

And let me make one other observation and I'd welcome your feedback. I have a big problem with the FAs asking pilots to turn on the seatbelt light during beverage and meal service or especially when the FAs want a break during the flight...I know it's annoying when a passenger has to get up and the cart(s) have to be moved, but I do think it is a "boy who cried wolf" situation and I no longer take the seatbelt light as seriously on United because it is used so often in-flight. Please don't dismiss me on this...I think it is a bigger problem than many pilots might be willing to concede. There is a careful balance that must be struck.