Sammendrag
This article discusses problematic aspects of the role ofthe action researcher when working with multiple stakeholderson a complex research project concerning regional development. The case presented here deals with the improvement of theregional innovation system in a small region in the south ofNorway. The project resulted in a conflict between stakeholdersand the action research (AR) team. We claim that when working in a regional context, the role of the action researcheris set to be a collaborator in a context of power play; the ultimate stakeholders must be defined as the citizens in thatregion. Therefore, in some situations the action researcher must have a legitimatised right to abandon collaboration and present a critical voice in the public deliberation. Strategic power play and strategic action by stakeholders represent aclearthreat to the "soft approach" of collaboration, reflectivity, and democratic dialogue that AR represents. The ultimate challenge and obligation of the action researcher is to improvedemocracy in society in a long-term perspective through representing a critical capacity in the public deliberation.
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