What if instead of the white elephant of the ISS, we had tried to do build a robotic space station. We could have developed:
1) perfected automated docking
2) put an array of communication satelites to teleoperate robotic instruments

Consider the intention along with the time ISS was conceived and the date construction started. Sure we have hindsight now, the question is will we learn from it.
The Russian's are way ahead of us with automated docking and we relied on them for the service and hopefully we are learning from that with the DART project.

3) actually performed science instead of all activity being focused on just keeping astronauts alive

If we are going to Mars with our current rocket technology we definitely need to learn more than we have on keeping astronauts alive. A lot of research still needs to be completed on bone loss alone.

4) Not having to worry about human habitats, how much material could've been saved from being transported?
5) How many science modules could've docked, performed their experiments, and either reentered for recovery or sent down information?

A lot the problem is that construction delays have stifled ISS science but the concept was sincere.

6) Perfected automated construction techniques and advanced robot technology

Gee, you have to start somewhere. What space robotic technology does any country have to offer even at this date?

7) Worked on the next generation lift vehicle to reduce cost to space

Now you are talking, I'm with you.
Well, from the beginning I thought that multiple countries working on an international space station was a fantastic thing and maybe for the first time peace could be in sight of my lifetime. Unfortunately cost overruns, treaty concerns and delays from the US and Russia turned the project into a political mess and the elephant you mentioned.

I still think we need a space station for research and development of humans in space and we won't be able to learn how to live in space safely and with longevity without one.