Ah, it all comes clear! You're just looking for a hand with your translation, vika - a sounding Board.

Yes, you're certainly correct in thinking "simpleton" is not the right word. Many people would find it offensive, as it implies "dim-witted" or "slow", occasionally worse. Neither would you talk about a class (or social group) of simpletons.

I can't currently think of an adequate alternative, certainly not in a USn context which is what you want. But I can tell you that punter isn't the word you're looking for. It's a very British term, in this instance presented by a (bloody good) Scottish writer. Closest translation of "punter" would be "customer" - but it was first applied, I believe, to a bookmaker's customers.

Fisk