To some extent, it doesn't really matter what Linus proclaimed but he's helped here by tipping others over the edge of contributing to the discussion.

By that i mean, how many people who have great respect for Linus, previously sat quiet on the issue, absorbing the information, but now feel engaged enough to voice an opinion? I'd wager quite a few.

Good on him for not sitting quiet. A big public spotlight's exactly what's needed on this issue. Linus just helped cast the beam a little wider.