Time Magazine released its’ annual List of 100 Most Influential People in the World, and the list is nothing short of eclectic. Do you agree with the magazines’ selection of those who have had a noteworthy impact on society?

Time Magazine defines the ninth annual list as “the people who inspire us, entertain us, challenge us and change our world”, including everyone from controversial public figures to tabloid headliners. Notable entertainers who made the list alongside 54 international figures from 37 different countries include Viola Davis (The Help), Chelsea Handler, Kristin Wiig, Rihanna and Claire Danes. The most surprising? NBA Pointguard Jeremy Lin, Pippa Middleton, and NFL Quarterback Tim Tebow. The least surprising? Political figures Barack Obama, Mitt Romney, Hilary Clinton and Ron Paul.

The list includes 38 women, which is more than ever before. While the list may initially strike some as random, poorly thought-out, or insignificant, the reasoning provided behind each selection serves as justification for the credibility of most of the individuals.

Like every year, Time Magazine features commentary on the list of influential people by other well-known public figures. Howard Stern vouches for Matt Lauer, ” [Lauer]was still the smartest, the strongest, the classiest…. No wonder NBC is paying someone $25 million a year and it ain’t me!”, while Jeremy Lin gives props to Tim Tebow, “As athletes, we pour our hearts into winning games. Tim is a reminder that life is about much more than that”.

What are your thoughts on the selection of Time Magazines 100 Most Influential People in the World? Did Jeremy Lin actually change the world? Is North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un too controversial to be included alongside global peace leaders?

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