yord's Favorite Orators

My biggest inspiration, hands down, linking the cosmos to our everyday lives with such ease.

The pioneer of the monomyth and the identifier of the Journey of the Hero single-handedly inspired me to pursue a future in literature.

Few are as measured and as thorough as Bill Moyers, who is truly an icon in journalism and news commentary, setting an exemplary standard by which all others should be judged.

The gentlest of the "Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse," and easily the most knowledgeable and cerebral of them--he is never short on big ideas, and has an unparalleled ability to communicate them with the greatest of ease.

He has many imitators, but no one can tell the hard truths quite like George Carlin can.

A Carl Sagan for the younger generation, just as able to inspire people to dream about reaching the stars.

Surprising that the world's most famous silent actor was also a master of the English language.

When idiocy eloquently masquerades as reason, there truly is no better person to annihilate their faulty arguments.

History remembers Churchill for his wisdom and his eloquency, and his ability to lift the spirits of the weary like no other.

I was just recently introduced to Mr. Buckley, but I instantly took a liking to his quick wit and intelligence--he asks piercing questions and keeps the tone elevated, avoiding inciteful language, which I find quite admirable.

By far the most renown expert in the field of genetics and evolution, his keen intellect and reasoning are both convincing and somehow reassuring.

An inspiration to all people, decades ahead of her time, she forged a path for countless others to follow.

World renown magician and debunker, he is a powerful force of reason, never shying away from exposing psychic frauds--which happens to be all psychics.

A man devoted to his craft, which is a mix of illusion, showmanship, and clever use of language to convince and trick others--all while explaining exactly how he does it.

A genuine American genius, with a personality all his own, he radiates warmth as he explains the vast and inconcievable nature of nature.

An important commentator on today's political environment and a master of satire--so good that 50% of Republicans believe every word he says.

Almost like the counterpart of Colbert, Stewart is equally as important in today's culture, with a delivery that highlights the absurd without losing any relevance.

As important to me now as he was when I was a kid just discovering the wonders of science, he has long been a champion of the public understanding of technological advancement and hard science.

A gifted linguist with a wonderful voice who is able to seamlessly mix humor with serious observations and ideas.

Until discovering Rob Bryanton, I had no really good way of imagining quantam physics--which speaks to how well he is able to conjure up tangible images that take you deep into the 10th dimension.