ACCOUNTING ELITES AND ACCOUNTING THEORY

A review essay of Sten Jönsson, Accounting Regulation and Elite Structures Driving Forces in the Development of Accounting Policy (New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1988). Using a reputational and a decisional approach, the study identifies a three-tiered Swedish accounting elite of approximately 40 persons. This elite plays a significant role in establishing and maintaining accounting regulations. These regulations govern the development of accounting practice which in turn determines accounting theory. The suggestion is made that this study would benefit by more closely examining alternative paradigms and theories, which would de-emphasize the strong structuralist position taken and allow consideration of the influence of theory on practice. A metatheoretical framework is offered for consideration. © 1991.