[Cincinatus' Wife]

The Moon presents many reasons for a return - national security, energy, science, technological and inspiration.

[aquawrench]

Sounds like yet another overly objectionable sales pitch for spending gobs of tax money so that nerds can be employed. Ok, that was somewhat over the line, but really, we can send robots and probes and still accomplish every single one of your points! Arent you inspired by Spirit and Opportunity? Just in the naming of the probes is inspiration let alone the skill in landing them safely and even repairing the first from here on Earth!!! How about energy? We can always research new ways to get it up... There are plenty of new ideas being worked out on getting payload into orbit.
I used to be on your side of the equation not too long ago, but I have been imbued with new found faith.