Theology, accountability and management: Exploring the contributions of Scottish Presbyterianism

Abstract

This article traces the development of practices of accountability in the Scottish Presbyterian church from its origins in the 16th century. Such practices are shown to have theological roots, but to be mediated by liturgical and governance practices which, once routine and taken for granted, become available as resources in the economic domain. The influence, in particular, on the early development of managerial thought in the United States is suggested. The treatment suggests the importance of taking a historical approach to the development of core concepts in organizations.