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Acting on distances: A topology of accounting inscriptions

Author

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  • Corvellec, Hervé
  • Ek, Richard
  • Zapata, Patrik
  • Zapata Campos, María José

Abstract

Following on the reiterated claim that accounting inscriptions make action at a distance possible, we draw on post-mathematical topology to explain that this distance work is dependent on inscriptions acting on distances. By adopting a relational understanding of space, we show that accounting inscriptions by themselves create the distances across which they operate. Our case study uses pay-as-you-throw solid waste-collection invoices in a new waste-collection program aimed at increasing the sustainability of waste management. By displaying weight and cost side by side, these invoices conduct topological operations that dissolve, create, and redefine the distance between people and their waste, between the economy and the environment, and between the city and its residents. The ability of these operations to mobilize a sense of environmental responsibility, enroll residents in the city's plans for sustainability, and translate political ambitions into individual behavior demonstrates that the performativity of accounting inscriptions resides in the efficacy of their distance work.

Suggested Citation

  • Corvellec, Hervé & Ek, Richard & Zapata, Patrik & Zapata Campos, María José, 2018. "Acting on distances: A topology of accounting inscriptions," Accounting, Organizations and Society, Elsevier, vol. 67(C), pages 56-65.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:aosoci:v:67:y:2018:i:c:p:56-65
    DOI: 10.1016/j.aos.2016.02.005
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    Cited by:

    1. Kingston, Kylie L. & Luke, Belinda & Furneaux, Craig & Alderman, Lyn, 2023. "Examining the re-territorialisation of beneficiary accountability: Digitising nonprofit services in response to COVID-19," The British Accounting Review, Elsevier, vol. 55(5).
    2. Yu, Lichen & Mouritsen, Jan, 2020. "Accounting, simultaneity and relative completeness: The sales and operations planning forecast and the enactment of the ‘demand chain’," Accounting, Organizations and Society, Elsevier, vol. 84(C).
    3. Sundström, Andreas & Catasús, Bino, 2023. "Let the right one in: ‘Accounting proxemics’ in the design of performance indicators," CRITICAL PERSPECTIVES ON ACCOUNTING, Elsevier, vol. 96(C).
    4. Vollmer, Hendrik, 2019. "Accounting for tacit coordination: The passing of accounts and the broader case for accounting theory," Accounting, Organizations and Society, Elsevier, vol. 73(C), pages 15-34.
    5. Matringe, Nadia & Power, Michael, 2024. "Memories lost: a history of accounting records as forms of projection," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 120410, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.

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