Affiliations: Department of Economics, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
Abstract: In this paper methods and tasks of contemporary accounting research are examined in an attempt to trace desirable trends. Firstly, the methodological considerations underlying accounting are presented. Secondly, it is explained why a shift in research emphasis, and most probably in research methods, is necessary. Thirdly, the mathematical emphasis in accounting research is reexamined in relation to the Nobel prize winners and with reference to the present situation of East European countries. Lastly, the foreign exchange accounting is reconsidered within the framework of the European Economic Community developments.
Keywords: ex ante (planned) situation, ex post (actual) situation, simulate, physical events, social events, volition, perception and expectations, validity of theory, positive (descriptive) theory, normative (prescriptive) theory, face-validity, predictive validity, internal validity, convergent validation, discriminant validation
