Double Counting (accounting) - Value Theory

Value Theory

The system of gross and netting actually used, is ultimately based on a value theory, which specifies what may generally count as:

• comparable value (value equivalence)
• value decrease
• value increase
• conserved value
• transferred value
• newly created value

In other words, we cannot relate, group and aggregate prices in different ways without making some value-based assumptions that enable valid comparisons. Without those value assumptions, the aggregates themselves would be meaningless. Thus, when economists focus on market-prices, value assumptions are always in the back of their mind, even if they are not aware of that, and regard value theory as metaphysical.

Neo-classical economics rejects any value theory other than subjective marginal utility preferences, but social accountants who provide the empirical data for their economic science cannot regard value as simply subjective. Otherwise, anything can count as anything, according to subjective preference, and any old computation is permissible.