Influence of religion on accounting textbooks produced by Scottish authors in the eighteenth century

What is it about?

Accounting textbooks produced by Scottish authors were dominant in the eighteenth century on both sides of the Atlantic. This article places this pre-eminence in the context of the focus on systemic accountability fostered by the distinctive practices of Presbyterianism. Local practices emphasised detailed record keeping, enabling financial transactions to be related to the relevant decisions. The corporate form of church governance facilitated practices such as budgeting and forecasting. Scotland maintained leadership in accounting practice well into the late nineteenth century; this article suggests some of the roots of this pre-eminence.

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Why is it important?

The impact of religion on economic activity has often been seen in the context of formal belief systems. However such belief systems were often restricted to the theologically adept; of more importance were how they were translated into rituals. Religion, that is, has to be performed. That performance in turn is sustained by routines of governance and accountability. This is a distinctive perspective on the impact of religion on economic activity.

Perspectives