From what I read, even prior that accident there was many red flags and security concerns on this ship and even some incidents before. But Titan operated in international waters and didn't had to follow any regulations. Otherwise, I doubt that someone would allowed to make this expedition.
But I think that all members of crew understood about risks and still decided to buy one way ticket for $250k. If to look for something positive, at least they didn't suffered as everything happened so fast that they didn't felt anything. Better than waiting until oxygen will run out..
The passengers were well aware of the risk involved in engaging in the exploration. It was reported that on the first page of the contract of exploration, death was mentioned three times. And the company will not be held liable in any case of accident, injury, or death. I had a water accident where I was drowning until I was luckily rescued, hence I know little about dying slowly. It is one of the most painful death and I have always wished to die swiftly. So it was a piece of relieving news to know that they died fast. May their souls rest in peace.
Agree with some comments above about world reaction. People are such hypocrites - few billionaires died, yes, it's tragedy, but not something why whole world should mourn. While few weeks ago in Greece waters refugee ship sank, almost 80 people lost their lifes, but nobody gives a fuck about it.
Millions of dollars were spent to search for this submarine because the passengers were rich and from influential nations. But Greek officials acted without sympathy when the overloaded ship carrying these immigrants was in distress. No effort was made to rescue them until the ship began to sink and the majority of the occupants are either missing or dead. The world will never treat everybody equally. People from poor nations will continue to suffer discrimination.