The imagery and reality of peer review in the U.S.: Insights from institutional theory

Abstract

Despite many challenges and highly visible failings, accountants in the U.S. continue to be a selfregulating profession. In large part, this can be attributed to the emergence and acceptance of peer review programs. This paper, using institutional theory as a template, addresses the discrepancies between what this technology promises and what it delivers. The discourse of peer review is reinterpreted to examine its societal consequences and its implications for the future of professional claims.