The Power of Knowledge"Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of all progress." This quote from Kofi Annan, a Ghanaian diplomat involved with the United Nations, directly correlates with a general theme found in Up from Slavery by Booker T. Washington. This autobiography clearly describes the trials and tribulations that Washington faced, but none of them are ever considered anything other than a learning experience. Washington's passion for learning allowed him to overcome the limitations perceived by those who simply allowed themselves to become victims of their circumstances. He viewed the difficulties he faced as opportunities to become a stronger, more confident person. Success did not come easy for this man, but through a series of events and obstacles, he managed to create his own success. It is important to have an education enriched by schooling, but Washington's life is proof that the power of knowledge can also be obtained by making the most of life and all that it has to offer , good or bad. on education shed light on perspectives around the controversial topic of placing a higher value on education or experience. While today's society focuses heavily on school, it is important to remember that life is not all about this aspect. A combination of education and experience is necessary to achieve the highest level of success. Education is a good foundation, but without experience there are limits to what a person can accomplish. Likewise, without the foundation of education, a life full of experiences can be unstable. A common consensus has yet to be agreed upon for this ongoing debate over whether education is a solution. demonstrates the crucial importance of education and experience. With a balance of the two, he could better transform everything he knew and everything he owned into a usable material that would best benefit his life. Works CitedBaym, Nina, Wayne Franklin, Philip F. Gura and Arnold Krupat. The Norton Anthology of American Literature. 7th ed. Flight. C. New York: WW Norton &, 2007. Print. Boud, David and Ruth Cohen. “Experience-based learning.” Understanding adult education and training. By Lee Andresen. 2nd ed. Sydney: Allen and Unwin. 225-239. Internet. April 22, 2012. Savery, John R. and Thomas M. Duffy. RLT. Technology. No. 16-01. Indiana University, June 2001. Web. April 22, 2012. “What is Experience-Based Learning?” » Starting point. Carleton College, April 11, 2012. Web. April 22. 2012. .