A step towards a general theory of accounting valuation

Abstract

Accounting appropriates the construct of value to denote exchange value and then propagandises it with the badge 'fair' value. With most theory building the positive task is harder than the normative one, but in accounting, positive theory of valuation is completely circumscribed by the assumed needs and wants of the investor, speculator and their advisors. A normative theory would need to identify basic principles of accountability and fiduciary duty, a coherent set of accountability boundaries to clear the ground. The paper moves from these general considerations to the particular issues involved in accounting for, and accounting to, labour in a way that could reasonably be deemed useful to its constituents.