> We have decided the question is something like "how many kids should we let die so that the rest can play with chemistry sets?" and concluded the answer is few to none.

A perfect example of how choosing the right question matters just as much as choosing the right answer.

"How many kids should we let die so that the rest can play with chemistry sets?" is the same kind of fallacious question as "Do you think all vaccinations should be voluntary or are you in favor of authoritarianism?"

In short, it's a false dichotomy presented as a question, with the purpose of distorting the narrative and forcibly ending discussion.

EDIT: Since it might not be clear, I want to clarify that I'm not saying the parent chose that question to shut down the discussion. I agree with the parent's assessment that insisting on asking the right questions wasn't "a winning move for politicians".