The moon is the sensible step toward mars. Its a far harsher environment than mars and if we can live there we can live on Mars.
I see the moon as its own goal, not as a step to Mars. I'm sure we'll get to Mars some day, I would just like it to be downgraded as a priority.
As for "far harsher environment"... well, it's true that the moon is harsh, but I believe people have a romantic science fiction idea about Mars. It is extremely harsh on Mars, that pale acidic bit of atmosphere notwithstanding.
And if you are going to talk about environments, you have to consider locations.
The supply line to earth is much better on the moon than on Mars, which makes Mars far harsher, in practice.
And BTW, I believe we already are on Mars. I believe in a continued and accelerated robotic presence on the red planet.