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ACCA Applied Knowledge · Business and Technology · Fundamental principles of ethical behaviour

Which of the following best describes professional scepticism in the context of an accountant's work?

Professional scepticism is maintaining a questioning mind and critically assessing the information and evidence obtained. It involves being alert to inconsistencies and not accepting statements at face value. It does not mean presuming dishonesty, nor accepting explanations just because they come from a senior person.

  1. AAssuming that management is dishonest until proven otherwise
  2. BMaintaining a questioning mind and critically assessing the information and evidence obtainedCorrect
  3. CAccepting explanations from senior colleagues because of their greater experience

Explanation

Professional scepticism means keeping a questioning mind, being alert to inconsistencies and critically assessing evidence. It does not mean presuming dishonesty, so the first option is wrong. Accepting explanations because of seniority is the opposite of scepticism.

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