Sir John Templeton

Cause: The pursuit of spiritual understanding, often through scientific research. The native Tennessean, 94, began awarding the annual Templeton Prize in 1972. Valued at more than $1.5 million, it is for those who exhibit "progress toward research or discoveries about spiritual realities," from philosophers to physicists.

Impact: The John Templeton Foundation grants more than $60 million a year for research into the sciences and religion.