Shuttle should be automated---astronauts don't like automated vehicle

From nasaproblems.com

The orbiter mass property issue is resolved by removing the piloting functions to provide weight margin for the pods (~ 3,700 pounds). Escape pod weigh is 700 pounds per pod. The pods provide protection for all phases of flight. At launch pad and lower altitudes escapes, a ballute deploys to slow the pod for parachute deploy. The pod's life support system provides on-orbit safe haven in the event the cabin pressure is breached. Target lifetime for life support is 20 days to allow for on-orbit rescue. Pods are located behind the nose cone heat shield wake to reduce excessive thermal loads in the event of a Columbia type entry failure. The pod is also equipped with a heat shield system. The pod must be a "smart pod" ... it must have knowledge of the environment.
The crew escape pod is the key to reducing the shuttle operations cost and providing safe access to space for the astronauts. To install the pods requires weight be removed from the cabin area or the forward center of gravity limit would be violated. The only function in the cabin area that is not required for flight operation is the piloting function. All piloting functions can be automated. Automated flight has been conducted for all phase of flight operation. Removing the piloting subsystems (commander and pilot weight, seats, forward flight deck displays and control systems, escape pole, forward windows, etc. ) provides a weight margin of nearly 3,700 pounds that can be used to install the escape pods. The only major roadblock is the steadfast objection of NASA's spaceflight management to carrying astronauts on automated space vehicles. This is an inbred management policy that has festered in the human space programs for far too long!