Politics

Politics of Knowledge Politics of Knowledge Elana Michelson describes politics of knowledge as the power struggles that exist in many countries due to the extremes in knowledge. Elana Michelson is a professor and author of the book that explains the economy of knowledge– ‘ Globalization, Adult Education and Training’ (1997). She opines that academic elitism pits the advantaged learners against the disadvantaged learners; therefore, facilitating conflict of interest. Additionally, she observes that knowledge equaled experience; however, the question remains how to access the knowledge for the purpose of credentials. Noteworthy, she argues that knowledge, accessing higher education and experiential learning in adults are essential for the oppressed. Michelson posits that there is a need to revise the definition of skills to include categorization of vocational and academic skills. She views knowledge as political because knowledge is essential to a nation’s economic edge at a time of advanced technological improvements as well as global competition. Michelson opines that governments should provide adult learners with employment credentials, identify areas for training and retraining learners as well as to identify appropriately skilled workers (Michelson, 1997). She concludes by naming knowledge: equity (Michelson, 1997).
I agree with her sentiments. Indeed knowledge is the equalizer. In the contemporary world, extremes of knowledge have resulted in diverse political and economic divides. He elite are richer than the less learned. The gap between the rich and the poor widens. Ostensibly, the rich would control the political class and the economy. Such differences result in political strife and constant violence. Nonetheless, through education, the disadvantaged can enjoy the lifestyle of the elites.
Reference
Michelson, E. (1997). The Politics of Memory: The Recognition of Experiential Learning. Globalisation, Adult Education and Training: Impacts and Issues., 141-53.