Title
The History of Professionalization in U.S. Public Accountancy
Abstract
This chapter develops a model of professionalism via a synthesis of three extant theories from the sociology of the professions literature. Nine components or conditions of the model are used to trace the historical development of public accountancy through an Early Era from1850 to 1929 and a Modern Era from 1930 to the mid-1980s. The conclusion is that concerted efforts over an approximate 130 year period were needed for accountancy to achieve elite professional status in the eyes of the U.S. public. The question remaining is if accountants have forgotten the history lessons on what has been required to achieve and sustain elite professional status?
Department(s)
School of Accountancy
Document Type
Article
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1108/S1574-0765(2011)0000015004
Keywords
Accounting history, Accounting organizations, Accounting theory, AICPA code of ethics, AICPA membership, Auditing theory, CPA firm revenue, Critical theory, Interactionism, Professionalization, Public interest, Public opinion, Structural functionalism
Publication Date
1-1-2011
Recommended Citation
Garcia, Andy, and James C. Lampe. "The History of Professionalization in U.S. Public Accountancy." Research on professional Responsibility and Ethics in Accounting 15 (2011): 1-46.
Journal Title
Research on Professional Responsibility and Ethics in Accounting
