In what is arguably the most significant irony noted in The Reckoning, Arthur Andersen (the man, not the firm that later became notorious as Enron's auditors) was meticulous about ethics, insisting that auditors answer first and foremost to investors. "To preserve the integrity of his reports," Andersen insisted, "the accountant must insist upon absolute independence of judgment and action."

Andersen also disagreed, however, with British accountants regarding an accountant's role.

Andersen felt that accountants should act as consultants to their firms as well as auditors, helping business grow as well as auditing their financial statements. As we all know, U.S. accounting quickly pivoted towards Andersen's view.

Please state your opinion about the quoted statements. Discuss the implications of the profession adding the consulting role to its list of offerings to clients.