Fluctuation IS bad if it's keeping the best of ideas from getting out there, yes. Just because something is expensive is no reason not to use it if it is the right thing at the right time.
Propulsion yes. I know, I know, shuttles are not the only way, but stepping back to Saturn Five days was not the right decision either if you ask me. Which no one has because I don't have the degree for them do that yet...
There DOES have to be a better way, so you are right.