Auditor Judgment Bias Research: A 50-Year Trend Analysis and Emerging Technology Use

Abstract

The increased development and use of automated and cognitive technologies at the Global Six, in conjunction with the increased availability of data and various levels of data structure, may exacerbate auditor judgment bias or give rise to new biases. We take a comprehensive approach to gain a new perspective by providing a 50-year trend analysis of auditor judgment bias which results from relying on judgmental heuristics and the potential effects that the use of cognitive and automated technologies, such as artificial intelligence, may have on judgment. We describe individual biases and identify specific areas of research, commonalities and differences, gaps in the literature, and research methods applied. We construct a conceptual framework as a point of departure to guide future research by focusing on the impact of emerging technology. We conclude by identifying opportunities for future research.