most influential people in the world?

[ada]

Time Magazine lists Osama bin Laden, Pope Benedict XVI, Kate Moss and  Sacha Baron Cohen among its list of 100 most influential people in the world. Hilary is in but George  W is out.

Who would you nominate? (You are not allowed to say "god")

[pianistimo]

influential - as the most followers?  the thing is - even within these groups - islamic, catholic, whatever - there are many 'variations' of beliefs within the believers.  so very influential leaders know how to connect with the looser parts of their following.  i think the pope is attempting to reconcile the eastern church with the western and it will be a legacy of his.  that's quite a few people.

i admit not knowing much about sacha baron cohen.  world's most eligible bachelor or something?  ah. i see - borat. 

[thalbergmad]

Jesus

[ganymed]

the german chancellour angela merkel is according to the forbes magazine the most powerful woman on earth

[prometheus]

Kate Moss? Influential in what way?

[pianolearner]

Time Magazine lists Osama bin Laden, Pope Benedict XVI, Kate Moss and  Sacha Baron Cohen among its list of 100 most influential people in the world. Hilary is in but George  W is out.

Who would you nominate? (You are not allowed to say "god")

Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Ben Bernanke

[ada]

influential - as the most followers? 

I would say not necessarily in number of followers so much as in capacity to influence international opinion and world events, hence Osama.

(EDIT:    The list is designed to recognise "the men and women whose power, talent or moral example is transforming our world")

 I would have to agree with Time here that he is single handedly responsible for changing the world.

Hitler was influencial in the same way.

Kate Moss is listed under 'artists and entertainers"; along with Brad Pitt and our own Cate Blanchett. My guess is as good as yours prometheus.

Anyway enough. I have work to do, deadlines to meet....

[counterpoint]

the german chancellour angela merkel is according to the forbes magazine the most powerful woman on earth

They can't be serious  

Angela Merkel - powerful? Good joke  

[jakev2.0]

Pony Ma...what a cute name! 

[mikey6]

The almighty Father

[lichristine]

bert mccracken-has saved many many many "kids' " lives

[maul]

it's all about the Sanjaya