Islamic Accounting: Social, Ethical and Religious Aspects of Development

Abstract

The article focuses on the social significance of accounting and ethics as its integral part as well as on the way a religion influences the development of accounting principles and practices. Social, ethical and religious aspects of accounting development are considered on the example of the Islamic accounting model. Currently, this model is the only one that was formed and is still developing under the strong influence of the religious factor. In Islamic society the development of accounting theory is mainly based on the provisions of the Islamic law (Shari’a) though it may also use as a basis other principles which do not contradict Shari’a. The article discusses the Code of Ethics adopted by Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic financial institutions. The most attention is paid to the principle of “Maslahat”, which is a guide for accountants in making decisions in the situations involving conflict of interest. The article considers the issues of social responsibility, accountability and disclosure of information from the viewpoint of Islamic accounting.