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On Creative Accounting: Two Creativity Myths

Harvard Business Review

Two myths about creativity underlie the squeamishness: First, that creativity is morally, ethically good. So, by definition, creativity is morally neutral. The Balanced Scorecard's primary form of novelty is that it takes into account the intangible assets that are so crucial for information-age companies.

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Profiting from the Golden Rule

Harvard Business Review

Even accounting rules specifically dealing with reputation — goodwill and intangible assets — are subject to frequent rule changes and endless debate. Our system of financial accounting rewards quarterly profits, but struggles mightily to place a value on ethical behavior.