The History and Rhetoric of Auditor Independence Concepts

This paper presents an historical and rhetorical analysis of auditor independence concepts. This analysis is relevant as the newly formed Independence Standards Board in the U.S. is beginning work on a conceptual framework of audit independence to use as a basis for regulation. Debate about independence concepts has a long history and some elements of the accounting profession are suggesting that a radical turn away from historical and philosophical conceptions of independence is currently needed. Independence concepts are both defined and limited by the metaphors used to convey them. These metaphors in turn reflect culturally significant narratives of legitimation. Both the metaphors and legitimating narratives surrounding auditor independence are historically rooted in the moral philosophy framework of the ethics of rights. Current independence proposals represent a shift from the profession=s traditional moral philosophy grounding to a basis in economic concepts and theory. The character of the independent auditor is changing from Ajudicial man” to Aeconomic man.” A number of consequences to the standing of the profession in the public=s eyes, as well as to its internal character, may arise from the changing narrative of auditor independence.