Dayo Olopade asks whether giving away money -- and lots of it -- is really the best way to change the world:
But it is not just cash on hand that makes Gates the biggest player in the philanthropy industry. With operations spanning more than 100 countries -- not to mention a robust program of giving within the United States -- its reach is truly global. Gates Foundation grants support everything from tiny schools in New Mexico to the United Nations Foundation. It is difficult to find an area of health, education, or development work that Gates hasn't touched. (Indeed, nearly all of the individuals quoted in this article have partnered with or received funding from the Gates Foundation.)