Whether one agrees or disagrees with Republicans in foreign policy in the past 50 years, one cannot deny the expertise of Presidential candidates, or in the absence of expertise by them, their Vice Presidential running mates.
Richard Nixon and Henry Cabot Lodge in 1960 had exceptional foreign policy background and experience.
Barry Goldwater may have been wrong headed and too aggressive, but at least he had knowledge of foreign affairs as a Senator from Arizona.
Richard Nixon in 1968 and 1972 had even greater expertise on foreign policy than in 1960.
Gerald Ford and Bob Dole had extensive background in foreign issues in 1976.
While Ronald Reagan had limited background in 1980, he had George H. W. Bush to assist him for eight years.
Bush had the expertise needed in 1988 and 1992, although he had the inferior Dan Quayle as his running mate and Vice President.
Bob Dole and Jack Kemp had experience and background when they ran together in 1996.
While George W. Bush had little background and experience, he had his dad and his running mate, Dick Cheney, who had been Secretary of Defense under his father.
John McCain had extensive background in foreign policy in 2008, although Sarah Palin was an embarrassment.
Now in 2012, we have two GOP candidates, Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan, who have no real background or experience, but both love to bluster and threaten and act tough, and the world looks on with trepidation at the thought that this inferior team might be in charge of national security and defense and foreign policy!
In addition to your astute analysis Professor Feinman, i always appreciate when you address current issues, elucidate historical facts, as well as relate the social nature of the topic for your readers. Your students are indeed fortunate to have you as their professor Sir!