101 Most influential people who never lived

October 17, 2006 · Filed Under zeitgeist

Interesting list over at USA Today — The 101 Most Influential People Who Never Lived.

Fictional characters, and the influence that they have on society, is a very, very interesting question. Now, I can’t say that I agree with the whole list, at least not without knowing their ranking criteria, but it is an interesting question that’s sure to generate much debate. Thankfully (and somewhat surprisingly…) they didn’t include any religious figures. It shouldn’t surprise me, but given the tenor of today’s culture, I must say that I am pleasantly surprised.

Fwiw, my top 5 would include (in no particular order):

Charlie Brown
Bugs Bunny
Dilbert
Superman
Calvin & Hobbes (they cannot be separated!)

I’m sure if I put some more thought into it I could come up with a bunch more, of varying levels of significance. But I’m comfortable that the five I just listed are both iconic and influential enough to merit inclusion — and four of my five didn’t make it on to the “official” list!
What say y’all?