As you surmise, a lot of space enthusiasts or actual workers in the space industry are more than a little cheesed over the huge chunk of cash that is taken up by the Shuttle and the ISS. Most have a favorite space project (and there are many) other than these two that they feel would be a much better use for the money.

A manned space station and a reusable launch system are EXTREMELY good ideas. Where the argument starts is the hundreds of billions that these two systems have cost, and will cost in the future. Many (including myself) believe the job could have been accomplished for far less money and in far less time.