In a way, some of it is due to technology...
or at least how some engineers look at it. I remember arguing with engineers years ago that the space station could be done a lot cheaper and simplier using Russian techniques. Their argument was, "But what new technology would come from that?"
In essense, they saw the ISS as a vehicle to develop new and very expensive technology rather than a vehicle to accomplish a purpose. That mindset in part explains why the ISS was years late, billions over budget, and much less than originally promised.