DMCA
Habermasian Inquiring System: Toward a General Framework For Knowledge Management Research
BibTeX
@MISC{Zining_habermasianinquiring,
author = {Guo Zining and Jim Sheffield and Zining Guo and James Sheffield},
title = {Habermasian Inquiring System: Toward a General Framework For Knowledge Management Research},
year = {}
}
Share
 |
 |
 |
 |
||
OpenURL
Abstract
This study addresses a long-standing and wellrecognized problem in KM research, namely the lack of conceptual integration and a cumulative tradition. Knowledge management needs an overarching framework to unify and direct research. This paper reports on the development of such a framework. Elements of the proposed framework are created by synthesizing concepts from the systems thinking and critical thinking traditions. It is argued that the synthesis of aspects of Churchman’s inquiring systems and Habermas ’ critical social theory provides a philosophically grounded, universally pragmatic framework useful in managing the complexity, and conceptualizing the richness, of knowledge phenomena. The key architectural element in this framework is Habermas ’ knowledge interests. Habermas ’ three knowledge interests (technical, practical and emancipatory) form a three-level integrating structure. Framework development consists of describing how four other design elements (Habermas ’ three rationalities, Churchman’s roles, knowledge dynamics, and research paradigms) are positioned within this integrating structure.
Keyphrases
general framework knowledge management research habermasian inquiring system km research knowledge management knowledge dynamic three-level integrating structure integrating structure framework development key architectural element knowledge interest habermas critical social theory cumulative tradition conceptual integration habermas knowledge interest wellrecognized problem research paradigm pragmatic framework design element overarching framework knowledge phenomenon direct research critical thinking tradition
