But I think historically, we will look back on him as having some of the most influential and profound ideas (and decisions) of the 21st century.
No one person has done as much for humanity as Bill Gates has, perhaps in the history of the world. The only comparisons are perhaps to someone like Jonas Salk.
Ok, now its clear you're in love or delusional.
What has he done but spend money? I haven't heard of a single breakthrough from that money, btw. Not that I'm really expecting any, these things take time.
Your placement of a ruthless business person (now giving away to charity) above einsteins and saints feels creepy frankly.
If your product is mediocre, then you can't really depend on it to sell itself, can you? So you have to use whatever leverage you can get to get it adopted and to keep out competition.