The hyperbole of Brooks's remarks is overwrought. To say that Palin is resistant to ideas is, well, a touch irresponsible journalistically speaking. When one levels an accusation like that, one should provide some examples. What things are we talking about? The muddled Couric interview? Or the provincial expertise of an Alaskan governor?

Brooks forgets that even Obama makes populist claims. He attacks Wall Street for "greed." His policies hinge on handouts. He uses the last 8 years of the Bush presidency as a catch-all for all things politically unsavory.

Palin's cardinal sin as of right now is following the (outdated, stupid, insipid, ridiculous, counterproductive) playbook of fighting the media. And accepting an offer to help a country she truly loves and may well have the ability to do. Her experience isn't something he ought to dismiss. I don't know what this Atlantic event was, but ...