I agree with the overplaced importance on them and the whole TV / celebrity culture some seem immersed in. But I guess they're products of their time.
Most of them I think are complete jerks. Personally, I like simple food, and I'm not particularly adventurous in my culinary pursuits.
Ramsey's arrogance, whether affected for pay, or truly his way, is repugnant - and yes, I've heard all the tedious arguments about high pressure environments, search for perfection, and all that other nonsense. I suspect brain surgeons and rocket scientists manage without losing their cool. I have some hope for him on a personal level that he tries his nonsense on somebody who's up for it, as I believe a lesson in humility and pain may well serve him - and the rest of society for that matter.
Have to say, though, and the only "celeb" chef that doesn't make me want to hurl an UN72 through the telly is Heston. Wouldn't dream of ever wanting to eat one of his creations, mind, but at least his personality doesn't make me picture him in crosshairs.