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Accounting for long-tail asbestos liabilities: Metaphor and meaning

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  • Lee Moerman
  • Sandra van der Laan

Abstract

This paper examines the different meanings of the ‘long-tail’ metaphor in the corporate environment. Using the case study of James Hardie Industries, this paper analyses the disclosure of corporate long-tail liabilities arising from asbestos operations under different regulatory frameworks. This analysis demonstrates the long-tail metaphor is redefined and reshaped in accounting discourse to fit with extant reporting frameworks rather than representing any legally enforceable claim or future liability. It also demonstrates that, as well as functioning symbolically to enable understanding of complex phenomena, the long-tail metaphor can be harnessed as a tool to objectify financial risks and justify corporate strategy.

Suggested Citation

  • Lee Moerman & Sandra van der Laan, 2011. "Accounting for long-tail asbestos liabilities: Metaphor and meaning," Accounting Forum, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 35(1), pages 11-18, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:accfor:v:35:y:2011:i:1:p:11-18
    DOI: 10.1016/j.accfor.2011.01.002
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    Cited by:

    1. Moerman, Lee C. & van der Laan, Sandra L., 2015. "Silencing the noise: Asbestos liabilities, accounting and strategic bankruptcy," CRITICAL PERSPECTIVES ON ACCOUNTING, Elsevier, vol. 27(C), pages 118-128.
    2. Moerman, Lee C. & van der Laan, Sandra L., 2012. "Risky business: Socializing asbestos risk and the hybridization of accounting," CRITICAL PERSPECTIVES ON ACCOUNTING, Elsevier, vol. 23(2), pages 107-116.

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