In defense of the BIS
While the BIS Journal may not be the most stringent technical and scientific source, it has a long history (since 1933) of looking forward, stretching the envelope in legitimate space ideas, and allowing creative scientists and others a forum to let some radical concepts be explored (Daedalus Project). Not only that, but the organization is a tremendously useful source of documentation and information on existing space programs.
I've seen a lot of crap thrown their way on this particular subject (not here so much), and would like to put in my two cents worth on this.
Full disclosure: Been a member since 1972, when other space advocacy groups weren't even a gleam in anyone's eye.