When Knowledge Becomes Risky … and Other Stories

The aim of this chapter is to provide a frame of the main topics related to knowledge, Knowledge Management (KM) and Knowledge Risk Management (KRM), considering the contribution of some of the most leading scholars to these strands. Throughout this chapter, readers will obtain an overview of some relevant terms and concepts, which could serve as background in addressing topics covered by the other chapters of this book. In particular, the importance of knowledge, especially the tacit and skilful ones, is highlighted, as well as the “dark side” of knowledge and its harmfulness for organizations are considered; up to also analyzing the set of tools and techniques to manage the risks associated with knowledge’s use, namely Knowledge Risk Management (KRM). Moreover, a digression on the main types of knowledge risks is provided as well. For each knowledge risk, information will be provided about their main characteristics, the potential harmfulness, and how (or if) they are included in organizations’ risk management.