Redefining accounting as a technical, social and moral practice to better the world

Abstract

Purpose: The essay is concerned with the redefinition of accounting as a multidimensional technical, social, and moral practice to enable the flourishing of organisations, people and nature to better the world.Methodology/approach: The essay draws upon earlier contributions, especially by Carnegie, Parker and Tsahuridu on redefining accounting, and the related articles by Carnegie, and Carnegie and Parker. It provides a synthesis for readers to understand, elaborate on, and support these ideas. Findings: Accounting is highly influential as a combined technical, social and moral practice, although it has yet to reach its full potential, as this essay illuminates.Originality/value: This essay contributes to the development of accounting thought and to the attractiveness of the accounting profession, especially among potential new entrants. It also helps to foster collaboration between education and research and the professional practice worlds of accounting.