Because that's how science and technology actually develop. The questions we're asking are blatantly obvious, and obviously haven't been asked.
The multiple iterations of Connections really should be a mandatory part of science education.
Which doesn't really help them understand it or use it for anything.
Grow... a space elevator... and it's going to grow itself into space... right.
I suggest you do some research on the actual challenges of building a space elevator, and where the points of failure are, and then ask yourself again if these are workable ideas.