Just like rejecting scientific claims based on a perceived bias rather than the data itself (GW).

I agree Zubrin has an abrasive personality. I agree he is his own worst enemy at times. I agree his single mindedness can make him come of as a zealot since he is. I agree he may be shooting his cause in the foot by making political enemies. I agree that building broad based support is also important for maintaining funding for a human mission to Mars, but fail to see why no such agreement is needed for other expensive human mission targets. I don't agree that any of this is a reason not to take his ideas seriously or ignore his technical points.

Zubrin is like a lot of technically proficient people that have done their homework, know they are right, and have little patience for people spouting poorly thought out opinions. This is not a good political personality, but it is the kind of personality that overcomes huge obstacles. Unfortunately Zubrin does not have the money to put his ideas in action and he needs to be more politically proficient to accomplish his goal.

Regards,
Mark