In this chapter, we argue that organizational evil (OE) is, at the same time, a fundamentally nonsensical idea and a concern of real importance for those studying or leading organizations. Nonsensical, we believe, because the senses in which the expression “organizational evil” is typically...

In this paper I argue that among the "lost legacies" of Adam Smith's work was a perspective on human moralilty that warrants his consideration as the first modern theorist of accountable governance. I elaborate on my rationale for that claim after reviewing the particular writings in Smith’s...

Abstract: In this paper I make the case for a theory of accountability. Moreover, I will make the case for an *ethical theory* of accountability, one that centers our subject in human relationships rather than mechanisms and institutions. The foundation for this effort involves adapting a...

We focus on Mark Bovens's use of the forum metaphor in his accountability model. The forum metaphor has emerged as a fundamental component in accountability's status as a ‘cultural keyword', reflecting its extension into the political rhetoric and everyday language of our time. People do not...