Interrogating an accounting-based intervention on three axes: instrumental, moral and aesthetic

Article Abstract:

An evaluation of accounting as a social phenomenon beyond its technical functions is made. Conventional perspectives of accounting consider it as a rational and informational decision-making tool. However, an examination of its theoretical and philosophical foundations suggests alternative viewpoints. An empirical investigation of the 1983 introduction of the prospective payment system in theUS health-care industry is undertaken using J. Habermas' framework of cultural spheres, which involves instrumental, moral and aesthetic modes of rationality.The results indicate that the worldview required by the application of accounting principles to a social commodity results in social fragmentation, the effects of which are not quantified in terms of financial costs. These findings indicate that accounting serves as a guide to moral decision-making, and thus, physically affects the people who use it.

Health and allied services, not elsewhere classified, Health care industry, Accounting and auditing, Practice

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An analysis of the development of accounting knowledge: a pragmatic approach

Article Abstract:

The conflict between the laissez-faire and social reformist doctrines with regard to the practice of accounting is examined through a review of proprietary theory. The early twentieth century saw the development of a corporate economy, through which the debate on private property rights gained importance. Proprietary theorists of accounting subcribed to classical economic principles which allowed them to reconcile absentee ownership and entrepreneurship. While the former has potentially dangerous implications for private property, the theorists' definition of 'proprietor' which was inclusive of stockholders made such a reconciliation possible. Stockholder control over retention and investment of profits is the mantra of proprietary theory, and the use of accounting procedures to maintain this prerogative is a profound recognition of the non-neutrality of the accounting practice.

History, Beliefs, opinions and attitudes, Social accounting

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