Abstract
In this paper we explore the meaning of collaboration in management research through a reflexive review of the literature that draws attention to its ethical and political implications. We trace the increasing pressure experienced by researchers to do collaborative research which is driven by an ideological argument that places value on knowledge being co-produced. Through reflexive analysis of our own situation in a university context where the language of collaboration is widespread, we draw attention to the problems associated with instrumental approaches to collaboration that tend to overlook considerations of politics and ethics and the role of reciprocity. We argue for a more reflexive approach to research collaboration that enables actors involved to clarify how they use and understand these words and to identify differences of interest and positionality.