This study addresses a long-standing and well-recognized 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.