Publication Date
2005
Recommended Citation
Gaffikin, M., Regulation as Accounting Theory, School of Accounting & Finance, University of Wollongong, Working Paper 9, 2005.
https://ro.uow.edu.au/accfinwp/50
Abstract
Over the years there have been many arguments and debates over the necessity for regulation. Those who believe in the efficacy of markets argue that regulation is not necessary as market forces will operate to best serve society and optimise the allocation of resources. However, there are many who point out that markets do not always operate in the best interests of societies so some form of intervention in the form of regulation is necessary. This is obvious in many aspects of society. For example, if there were no road rules for drivers chaos would result on the roads. If there were no restrictions on some “economic” activities then there would not be any need of drug smugglers as the market would indicate the need (demand) for drugs which would subsequently be supplied. These are obviously extreme examples but it is not hard to realise that there are many instances were regulations protect societies from undesirable activities.