Critical thinking in accounting

Critical thinking and critical writing are common phenomena in the accounting field. Some people maintain that thinking and writing critically are essential skills for modern accountants, while others claim these skills are only crucial at higher levels of management. Although opinions are divided on this topic, it is generally acknowledged that critical thinking and writing are necessary for accountants at all levels. This essay will focus on four main perspectives, which are functions of critical thinking and writing, the roles of critical thinking and writing in accounting, the importance of critical thinking and writing in management area, and their necessity in modern accounting.

Critical thinking is a mode of thinking that includes analysis, evaluation, and description of information. It helps individuals to decide whether an issue is true or false, or partly true. It enhances an individual’s creativity and encourages individuals to consider a claim in a critical perspective, emphasizing the individual’s ability on thinking and judgment (Moore 2012). Critical thinking includes thinking broadly, clearly and carefully (King 2005). Critical thinking plays an important role in all professional fields as it helps individuals distinguish between facts and opinions, extract valid information, test arguments, and evaluate the accuracy of specific theories (Dwyer 2013). Critical writing is an extension of critical thinking and employs skepticism, confidence, fairness and critical judgment (Wellington et al. 2005). Critical writing requires writers to present a clear conclusion, evaluating the evidence and testing the arguments from his/her own prospective (Moore 2012).

Critical thinking and writing play dual roles in accounting. They can demonstrate the weaknesses of accounting, such as an over-emphasis on theory and knowledge. By contrast, they also enhance thinking, understanding critically and skills in accounting (Reinsten & Bayou 2000). Bierstaker, Bedard