ABSTRACT
In this book we discuss the role of applied social science research, in a specific social and political context that we call a “regional knowledge system”. The book is a case study of one applied social science research institute (Agder Research), in one particular region (the Agder region of Norway). We argue that their applied social science research is part of the knowledge development process in the region. We look beyond the stereotypes of applied research, and try to demonstrate that it is diverse and stretches over many disciplines. Our argument goes beyond the traditional theory/practice divide, the rigour/relevance debate and the discussion of paradigms in social science. Instead, we discuss the different knowledge development processes that this research engages in, in terms of a meta perspective that we call the regional knowledge system. We will argue that approaching applied research in this manner creates a common language in which the different research activities can engage. We also argue that doing applied social science research is a balancing act, involving both practical and theoretical considerations. In this introduction, we present our perspective on these concepts and the framework we use in analysing our findings. In the concluding chapter, we return to this framework and present some learning from the discussions.
