I'm thinking that if there is to be discussion
about definitions, we should go back to the source.
Therefore, for what it's worth:
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, 2nd ed., 1991,
Accountability = Accountableness: The quality or fact of being
accountable or liable to give account and answer for conduct;
responsibility; amenableness (_to_ a person, _for_ a thing).
Earliest citation: 1688 Honyman, _Surv.Naphtali_ (1669) II 64.
Subordination to the Prince as to direction, accountableness, or
censurableness.
The earliest citation for Accountable (as in called to account) is
1583
There are 5 slightly differing definitions of 'Accountable'.
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Responsibility: The state or fact of being responsible.
Responsible: Answerable, accountable; liable to be called to account.
Earliest citation: 1643. Prynne _Sov. Power Parl._ III Appl. 12. To
hold this Popish erroneous opinion, that they are in no case
responsible for their whole kingdomes or Parliaments for their
grossest exorbitances.
There are 6 slightly different definitions for 'Responsible.'
Kia ora,
Annette
--
Annette Huang Manukau Institute of Technology Library
(huanga@manukau.ac.nz) Private Bag 94006
Manukau City, New Zealand
"On its own, no amount of technological development can lead to
lasting happiness. What is almost always missing is a corresponding
inner development." The Dalai Lama