Who was the executive at Xerox PARC that hired top computer scientists to create an easy-to-use computer?

The correct choice reflects the pivotal role of Robert Taylor at Xerox PARC (Palo Alto Research Center). Taylor was instrumental in fostering an environment where innovation could thrive, which included hiring leading computer scientists and researchers. His vision centered around the development of user-friendly computing technologies that would democratize access to computing power.

Under his leadership, Xerox PARC became a pioneering research facility where key innovations like the graphical user interface (GUI), the mouse, and various networking technologies were created. Taylor understood the importance of making computers more accessible to the average user, steering research toward designing an easy-to-use computer experience. This commitment laid the groundwork for future personal computing developments and set a standard in usability that influenced the tech industry significantly.

Other individuals mentioned, while influential in their own rights, did not play a similar role in the specific context of hiring and fostering a creative environment focused on easy-to-use computing at Xerox PARC.