Abstract This article comments on the perceived ability of the mathematical-model approach to simplify complex phenomena in the field of accounting. Specifically, the article examines whether mathematical modeling will make a net positive contribution to the accounting profession through its impact via managerial accounting. The author notes that the perceived ability of the mathematical-model approach to simplify complex phenomena to a point where apparently new and sometimes profound insights could be made, accelerated the penetration of this new religion into the very darkest corners of the realm. The author notes that other professional fields, such as engineering and architecture, appear to have gained a great deal through mathematical and physical modeling. Even if the area of managerial accounting has not benefited substantively from mathematical analysis, it might yet do so. While one might conclude, using armchair empiricism, that the opportunity cost to society thus far has exceeded the benefits attained, this state of affairs may merely represent unavoidable startup costs.
Thomas R. Dyckman (Wed,) studied this question.
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