Check out the Scientific American's fourth annual salute to the research, business and policy leaders of technology. Particularly I found interesting the policy leader of the year Fred Kavli, who shows a great example on how to put an extensive fortune into good use. 

Founder, Kavli Foundation, Santa Barbara, Calif. This technology entrepreneur and philanthropist has dedicated millions to help inspire revolutions in astrophysics, nanoscience and brain research

Fred Kavli has always followed the road less traveled. The Norwegian engineer came to the U.S. in 1956, shortly after earning a degree in engineering physics from the Norwegian Institute of Technology. Two years later he launched his own company, Kavlico Corporation, which, on the basis of his designs, patents and leadership, grew into one of the world's largest manufacturers of sensors for the aeronautics and automotive industries.