The ironic thing to me is that that sounds like an interesting and unique gaming mechanic (not being much of a gamer myself, I've never encountered that sort of thing) that will force the player to be logical and tactical, not a button-masher (especially if there is a penalty for harming the civilian, even if you have no choice due to the situation at the time)

However, that's ALL it is, a gaming mechanic. It's NOT a metaphor at all. Or at least it shouldn't be.