I continue to see nothing wrong with Mr. Wizard's ways. Was he abrasive at times? Sure. But a dick? No way. If holding kids accountable for their own stupidity or shortcomings makes Mr. Wizard a dick then I want to be a dick just like him. I bet these kids were all better off for having met Wiz. He was a straight shooter, not the kind of guy that would just brush people's lack of ability under the rug to protect them or give everyone a trophy just for showing up. I actually wish he was still around so he could see how well that approach has gone. 

Related:

A Supercut of Mr. Wizard Being a Dick to the Kids on His Show