Habermasian Inquiring System: Toward a General Framework for Knowledge Management Research

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.

Knowledge use in the management of privately owned forests: a focus on decision support services for multi-objective forest use

“…Habermas distinguishes three knowledge interests: technical, practical and emancipatory. Technical knowledge interest aims for knowledge production about the natural resources and technologies to utilise the physical world and most often relies on a positivistic idea of science (Zining and Sheffield 2006). However, it also guides the research about causal explanations and patterns in social phenomena.…”

“…However, it also guides the research about causal explanations and patterns in social phenomena. Practical knowledge interest concentrates on interpretation of language and intersubjective communication and relies on constructionist understanding in meaning as it is interpreted, understood, and shared (Zining and Sheffield 2006). It aims to ensure and enhance the possibilities of shared understanding and fulfilling of inner needs.…”

“…These power structures are conscious and unconscious and may rule over individuals in a restricting way. Emancipatory knowledge interest provides a dialectical synthesis of and a self-reflection on the technical and practical approaches (Zining and Sheffield 2006). This current thesis implements practical and emancipatory knowledge interests, as it searches for means to enhance forest owners possibilities to fulfil their objectives in forest ownership along with easing up the structures in forest owner decision support services that have been perceived as suppressing certain forest uses.…”