The Role of Know-Why in Knowledge Development Within Biomedicine: Lessons for Organizations
22 Pages Posted: 27 Mar 2008 Last revised: 2 Feb 2022
Date Written: 2000
Abstract
This paper identifies know-why as a critical dimension of knowledge, and interprets it by drawing on the literature in knowledge from diverse disciplines. We argue that know-why can complement other dimensions of knowledge, such as know-how, in enabling inquiry, innovation and knowledge development. A discussion of the role of know-why in knowledge development within biomedicine supports our argument. Insights drawn from biomedicine's history and organizational cases are used to develop propositions about knowledge development processes within organizations.
Keywords: Learning, Knowledge, Know-why, Know-how
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