The phrase “Knowledge is power” is engraved in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Inside you can find objects from past and present centuries. Within the many rooms divided by time periods and world powers are numerous relics illustrating the differences between class systems and how knowledge increased over the ages. The increase in knowledge can be linked to the success and power of each world power. Likewise, books highlight these same differences and link learning and knowledge to freedom and success. There are also many examples that focus on the connection between social class and the ability to acquire knowledge. In "Land of Opportunity", James W. Loewen highlights the connection between class systems and knowledge by arguing that often, individuals belonging to a higher class system have more opportunities to learn and succeed, while those of a lower social class have fewer opportunities. to acquire knowledge. In contrast, Frederick Douglass challenges this generalization by expressing his personal experience as a slave and how acquiring knowledge gave him power and a sense of freedom. In both areas, knowledge is a crucial factor in the success of each individual; however, an individual's social status is not the deciding factor in increasing their knowledge and success. Determination and the desire to use the power gained through knowledge in beneficial ways can be more powerful than social barriers. Often, determination is stronger than the connections between class systems. Douglass's personal example highlights the truth of this statement. He was originally born a slave, but taught himself to read despite subsequent repercussions from his master and mistress. Ingeniously,...... middle of paper ......s, individuals have equal opportunities to acquire knowledge. Every person who walks through the marble halls of the Museum of Art in New York can get a glimpse of times past and how they have affected the times we live in today. Likewise, today's books emphasize the importance of knowledge and the power it can create in the lives of individuals, regardless of their social class. It is then up to each individual to take advantage of this process and use it to achieve success and gain power. Works Cited Douglass, Frederick. “Learn to read and write.” See www.pasadena.edu. PDF file. Dumas, Alexandre. The Count of Monte Cristo. Trans. Robin Buss. New York: Penguin, 1996. Print. Loewen W., James. “The land of opportunities”. From investigation to academic writing. Ed. Stuart Greene and April Lidinsky. 2nd ed. Boston/New York. Bedford/St. Martin's, 2012. 201 205. Print.