This paper employs Churchman?s [13] inquiring systems as a kernel theory on which to base knowledge management systems (KMS) design. We build on Churchman?s nine requirements for an object to constitute a system and his Singerian inquiring system to develop the notion of Churchmanian knowledge management systems (CKMS) and principles for their design. We define a CKMS as a purposeful and ethical information system that creates exoteric knowledge and provides a link between knowledge and action in an organization. The design principles involve a strong emphasis on ethical behavior, the development of success measures for CKMS, the need to ensure that the CKMS enhances the dignity of mankind, a highly participatory design process, the desire to unify the designers, the decision makers and clients, the need to shape CKMS components in relation to the system as a whole, and the need for a "guarantor" to validate knowledge residing in the CKMS.