Professional judgement in accounting and Aristotelian practical wisdom

Purpose Recognising the growing importance of professional judgement within accounting, this paper examines how it relates to Aristotelian practical wisdom, with reference ethical failure at Carillion plc in 2018. This includes an examination these concepts are similar and they differ a reconceptualisation terms. Design/methodology/approach The conventional understanding is articulated accounting standards, institutions academic research. compared as presented Nicomachean Ethics. Both conceptualisations analysed plc. Findings Some similarities well significant differences between conceptualisation wisdom identified. Application shows judgement, concept, provides more adequate unethical behaviour. Research limitations/implications analysis identifies aspects that have not previously been explored empirically, but which nevertheless empirical support other domains. Practical implications Professional reconceptualised terms, informs bodies firms should conceive apply concept. Originality/value Although there has research on informed by psychology, little linking context. utilises philosophically perspective reconceptualise way failures.