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Accounting as codified discourse

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  • Sue Llewellyn
  • Markus J. Milne

Abstract

Purpose - This paper aims to introduce theAAAJspecial issue on “Accounting as codified discourse”, explicate the idea of codification and locate the notion of a “codified discourse” within the broader tradition of discourse studies in management. Design/methodology/approach - The approach is conceptual and discursive, and provides a theoretical framework for understanding codification and a discursive context for the accepted papers in this special issue. Findings - Theoretically, consideration of the more determinate relationship between codified discourse and practice can add to the general understanding of the discourse/practice dynamic in organisation studies. Several issues are identified that call for further empirical investigation. First, some of the broad‐spectrum accounting codes (e.g. historic cost) are currently under review in the expectation that change will enable constructive accounting innovation. Second, the impact of more codified accounting on management practice in organisations requires evaluation. Third, how far “intangibles” and “externalities” can be codified is a pertinent current agenda. Fourth, work is needed on whether and to what extent professional power is curtailed when politicians and policy makers introduce more codified discourses. Research limitations/implications - Currently “codification” is not well understood in the literature. ThisAAAJspecial issue opens up the debate but there remains considerable scope for future work to take this agenda forward – to enable more detailed understanding of accounting as codified discourse. Originality/value - Although “discourse studies” and “discourse analysis” are now firmly embedded in the organisational/management literature, “codified discourses” have not featured in the debate. This is a significant omission as codification is a key feature of many discourses – especially in professional fields like accounting, law, and medicine. Moreover, codified discourses are becoming more widespread. The value of this paper lies in its exposition of accounting as codification in relation to discourse.

Suggested Citation

  • Sue Llewellyn & Markus J. Milne, 2007. "Accounting as codified discourse," Accounting, Auditing & Accountability Journal, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 20(6), pages 805-824, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:eme:aaajpp:v:20:y:2007:i:6:p:805-824
    DOI: 10.1108/09513570710830254
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    3. Nielsen, Christian & Madsen, Mona Toft, 2009. "Discourses of transparency in the intellectual capital reporting debate: Moving from generic reporting models to management defined information," CRITICAL PERSPECTIVES ON ACCOUNTING, Elsevier, vol. 20(7), pages 847-854.
    4. Dumitru MatiÅŸ & Alina Beattrice Vladu & Dan Dacian Cuzdriorean, 2012. "Creative Disclosure - Feature Of Creative Accounting," Annales Universitatis Apulensis Series Oeconomica, Faculty of Sciences, "1 Decembrie 1918" University, Alba Iulia, vol. 1(14), pages 1-6.
    5. Liguori, Mariannunziata & Steccolini, Ileana, 2018. "The power of language in legitimating public-sector reforms: When politicians “talk” accounting," The British Accounting Review, Elsevier, vol. 50(2), pages 161-173.
    6. Bayou, Mohamed E. & Reinstein, Alan & Williams, Paul F., 2011. "To tell the truth: A discussion of issues concerning truth and ethics in accounting," Accounting, Organizations and Society, Elsevier, vol. 36(2), pages 109-124, February.
    7. Ravenscroft, Sue & Williams, Paul F., 2009. "Making imaginary worlds real: The case of expensing employee stock options," Accounting, Organizations and Society, Elsevier, vol. 34(6-7), pages 770-786, August.
    8. Fauré, Bertrand & Rouleau, Linda, 2011. "The strategic competence of accountants and middle managers in budget making," Accounting, Organizations and Society, Elsevier, vol. 36(3), pages 167-182, April.
    9. Bebbington, Jan & Larrinaga, Carlos, 2014. "Accounting and sustainable development: An exploration," Accounting, Organizations and Society, Elsevier, vol. 39(6), pages 395-413.
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