Impacts assessments are there to ensure that we look around in every conceivable direction for side effects of 'a solution' (including the process --not just the end result-- and the change to ways of life). The keyword is "assessment" -- we want to ensure "fair and just" facts and methods are used to calculate costs and benefits for all concerned.

I recall a 'medical quote' that says "the operation was successful, but the patient died a few hours later".