Moving Beyond Tacit and Explicit: Four Dimensions of Knowledge

Knowledge is a complex concept, yet the dominant view of knowledge in the management literature is a dichotomy between tacit and explicit. Even the knowledge management literature tends to view knowledge on a limited number of dimensions, whether this is in discussions of knowledge as a commodity or the process of knowing. A review of knowledge from first principles shows that knowledge has different degrees of validity, is highly heterogeneous and has complicated temporal and social aspects. A model of knowledge based on these aspects is presented. Comparing the four dimensions of knowledge with knowledge as a process opens up a more holistic view of knowledge management and helps articulate some of the key differences within streams of research in the field. This holistic perspective is also compatible with Polanyi\´s original complex conception of tacit knowledge, which drew heavily on Gestalt theory, a theory that examines the perception of "wholes". The dual perspectives of a multi-dimensional conception of knowledge as a commodity and a holistic perspective on knowledge management expands the avenues of potential research and improves our ability to put knowledge in action within organizations.