Accountability in accounting from the perspective of Islam by the focus on Structuration Theory

Accountability-based accounting theoretical framework emphasizes the need for accountability in the accounting system. The present study, considering the importance of sociological theories in accounting knowledge and using Islamic theoretical foundations, seeks to investigate this important issue. The purpose of this study is to explain the concept and components of accountability in accounting from the perspective of Islam with a focus on Structuration Theory. The present article is in the category of qualitative research that has been done in line with the purpose of the research by reviewing scientific and Quranic texts and interviewing 15 Quranic science experts and faculty members of public and private universities in the fields of accounting, sociology, and Islamic sciences. In this study, the obtained information was analyzed by the theme analysis method. The research tools in the qualitative section were in-depth and semi-structured interviews and the research sample was selected using a combination of non-probabilistic, purposeful judgment, and snowball methods. According to the research findings, accountability approach, accountability levels, accountability dimensions, accountable elements, accountability principles, accountability reinforcement were identified as the main research themes that explain the components and model of accounting accountability from the perspective of Islam in the framework of Structuration Theory. The results show that the Islamic model, focusing on agency in Structuration Theory, covers the weaknesses of this theory, including ignoring ethics and strong intentions in an agency. Strengthening agency will lead to strengthening the structure and finally strengthening social systems. This will lead to the flourishing of accountability language in the accounting system.