Questions and Information: Contrasting Metaphors

Thomas W. Lauer ()
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Thomas W. Lauer: Oakland University

Information Systems Frontiers, 2001, vol. 3, issue 1, No 5, 48 pages

Abstract: Abstract This article examines metaphors for question asking, information and knowledge in the context of knowledge management. Metaphors discussed include: information is a resource, knowledge is a product, a good question is an irritant, and questions are the enemies of authority. The analysis draws on current theories of metaphor from the cognitive sciences as a basis for understanding the conceptual entailments of these terms for the MIS field. Churchman's inquiring systems are discussed as an example of a question-centric approach to knowledge management. The article concludes that a greater emphasis on inquiry would offer a beneficial perspective for practices concerned with information quality and knowledge management.

Keywords: knowledge; information; knowledge management; questions; metaphors; information quality (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2001
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DOI: 10.1023/A:1011497503953

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