I think you're mistaken. RMS has changed the world exactly because his convictions are so strong that he lives by them in every little detail. If you notice it people that change the world almost always religiously live by what they preach. Their followers take notice of this and aspire to it. It becomes clear that here is someone that talks the talks and walks the walk without cutting corners. Thus they become leaders of a movement.
There are plenty of examples of this from Jesus to Nelson Mandela. It's not about being a martyr or experiencing personal pain, it's about holding true to your values no matter what. It's a very hard thing to do, but that is how you change the world.
I think you're vastly overplaying his significance in changes that would have happened anyway. I guess we'll just have to agree to disagree on that.
Also I disagree about being able to change the world best from extremist positions. The world isn't perfect. You have to be willing to compromise, and accept that you won't get everything you want (At least in one go).
Sure, extremists are sort of to be admired in how strongly they believe in their cause, and how they're often willing to die for it (Or put up with using a 9" computer), but I think far more is accomplished by moderate, compromising people who work toward their goals step by step.
For one thing, he's lost a potential audience - most people will simply write him off as a mad extremist hippy, and not listen to anything he says.
And how much difference has the whole 'free software movement' made when the whole of HN is salivating over perhaps the most closed device ever created with the iPad.
