Most Influential versus Most Beautiful

Time magazine today released its annual list of the 100 Most Influential People. People magazine released its annual list of the 100 Most Beautiful People today as well. Reviewing the lists side-by-side is somewhat of a cultural IQ test and evaluation of what elements of society are really the guideposts of one's life.

I understand what qualifies someone for People's "Beautiful" list - a list that I would never even make the top 100,000, let alone 100. But I am confused by what makes someone Influential and to what extent the sphere of influence has an impact.

Time's list is filled with political leaders such as Barack Obama, Gordon Brown, Hillary Clinton and Angela Merkel; Scientists like Steven Chu and Roland Fryer (OK they were the only two I knew off hand); Builders and Titans like Ted Turner, The Twitter Guys and Alan Mulally; and hero's like Captain Sullenburger and Tiger Woods.

In my view the strange inclusions on Time's list, are surprisingly part of People's "Beautiful" list. There are common members to both lists - Michelle Obama, George Clooney, Oprah, Brad Pitt, Penelope Cruz and Zac Efron.

I won't debate Mrs. Obama's place on the list - she is both stylish and making a mark on Washington and the world. Oprah was on Time's "Hero" list - yes I agree she is influential - she did choose the President, ya know - but a hero?? To whom?? For What??

Clooney has been a major voice for change in Darfur and not only has lent celebrity to the efforts, but voice, assistance and political pressure. Cruz is lauded for her strong portrayal of a variety of female roles both in front of the camera and behind. She has assumed a strong profile in Hollywood and her inclusion though not top of mind, upon review is warranted.

Pitt made Time's list of Builders and Titans primarily for his dedicated efforts with the Make It Right Foundation, which is building hundreds of affordable and sustainable homes in the Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans and elsewhere in the city. The project stresses "green" building techniques and resilient architecture, but is Pitt's effort influencing the world? Unfortunately Pitt is included not so much for action or result but for name recognition as half of the BrAngelina power couple. I think Jolie's efforts with the United Nations were more influential than her husband's to the greater world.

My major qualm with the listing is Time's inclusion of Efron on its list of Influential Artists and Entertainers. Zac Efron of the moppy hair cut and High School Musical dance skills. What has he influenced of any substance in the world or even Hollywood? Sure he influences screaming teenage girls to buy Tiger Beat and buy HSM merchandise - but what else? What has Efron done to use his sudden fame to impact society? Charity work? Foundations? Calling attention to social issues or strife?

Been influenced by Zac yet?