In my experience, a random selection of 12 folks will harvest at least 8 morons (including six or so liberals). In the one criminal trial I served as a juror, the judge, prosecutor, and defense talked to us like we were idiots, completely different from tv. I expect that was out of necessity through years of dealing with juries. And we held all the power. I think jurors should have to demonstrate some basic capability to serve, as naturalized citizens must pass a test in order to vote. If capable, then they should be paid more for their time.
You are spot on. I have served twice (not heavy stuff, thankfully) and on both occasions was stunned by the ignorance of some of the other folks on the jury. There truly is no such thing as a “jury of your peers”.