Since the vast majority of voters probably know even less than Palin about the world and foreign policy, they have no way of evaluating her response.

Horrifying, but probably true.

Nasochkas:

Since the vast majority of voters probably know even less than Palin about the world and foreign policy, they have no way of evaluating her response.

These voters, however, won't be heartbeat away from the presidency but Palin will. That's why she needs to know the answers.

Even if the voters don't know all of the answers themselves they can still judge Palin's knowledge or rather lack of knowledge.

But will they? Too many voters seem to think that "being just like them, only a little better," is the best qualification for leadership of the U.S.A. I don't see much evidence that voters consider specifics, such as education, intelligence, consistently demonstrating good judgment, etc. In fact, many voters seem to think that education and intelligence are bad qualities for leaders, and that pressing domestic and foreign issues can be resolved with a little down-home, folksy charm.

jascob:

In fact, many voters seem to think that education and intelligence are bad qualities for leaders, and that pressing domestic and foreign issues can be resolved with a little down-home, folksy charm.

Which explains a lot about the current state of our economy, foreign policy, infrastructure, etc.

When did ignorance become a virtue while having a good education become something to apologize for?

It started with Bush 1's political advisor who is now dead and I can't remember his name ( Dukakis and the rapist murderer), then Rove and the dimwit perfected it.

Lee Atwater. Funny thing about Lee is, on his deathbed he claimed that he regretted everything he ever did for the GOP. I guess he was trying to get into Heaven.

As I recall, Rove was a disciple of Atwater's. I wonder if he'll have a similar deathbed conversion.

I hope so! (and the sooner, the better).