[hellbender]

I don't think Buffett is a "good guy," or even that great a businessman. His school of investing loves monopolies and other safe, protected entities. He's not really an entrepreneur or innovator at all; those are the people who really create wealth for the whole population in the long run.
As for why he doesn't just give his money to the IRS: Remember, this guy supported Kerry. He would probably be offended that some of his money would be spent on things like defense. By giving it to the Gates Foundation, he's assured that much, if not most, goes to liberal causes like abortion and environmentalism.

[Sam Cree]

I don't know Buffet, so I can't truly say whether or no he's a good guy; I just think that mostly I have heard favorable things over the years about him. But some aspects of the guy are definitely non standard, so who knows?

I do have to think it's undeniable that if not an actual businessman, he is a fabulous investor, though. On that, the record speaks for itself.

[Marathoner]

Remember, this guy supported Kerry. He would probably be offended that some of his money would be spent on things like defense. By giving it to the Gates Foundation, he's assured that much, if not most, goes to liberal causes like abortion and environmentalism.

BINGO! I've read that "reproductive freedom", translation: abortion on demand is one of his pet causes, along with nuclear disarmament.The guy's a warmed over Soros, IMHO.