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The primary goal of using historical costs in accounting is to provide a consistent basis for asset valuation. This approach ensures that assets are recorded at their original purchase price, which helps maintain objectivity and reliability in financial reporting. By relying on historical costs, organizations can present a clear and consistent picture of their financial position over time, minimizing subjective assessments that could fluctuate based on current market conditions.

Using historical costs allows for easier comparison across reporting periods, enhances the reliability of financial statements, and provides a straightforward method to determine depreciation and allocation of costs. This consistency is vital for stakeholders, such as investors and creditors, as it aids in informed decision-making based on stable and verifiable financial data.

The other options do not align with the core purpose of historical cost accounting. Adapting to current market conditions would introduce variability and subjectivity, while recording assets at current market value detracts from the historical aspect that defines this accounting method. Speculating on future asset values goes against the principles of conservative accounting, which emphasizes recording events based on factual data rather than predictions.