NASA (like Soylent Green) is people
It is us who "aren't willing to accept that level of risk". And it is clearly not "now, suddenly". It is after losing two shuttles, and the public screaming at them for the testicles of those responsible.
Larry, you are more courageous than the average American. That's good. But don't blame NASA for catering to the wishes of the average American.
They have to ask JQPublic for a lot of cash to do much of anything. If good will and faith dries up, then so does the space program.