The metatheoretical framework the author introduces in this chapter is useful not only for navigating classical sociological theory, but also for thinking about virtually any social issue. Using Table 1.1 as a reference, devise your own question, and then give hypothetical answers that reflect four different basic theoretical orientations: individual/rational, individual/nonrational, collective/rational, collective/nonrational. For instance, why do 16-year-olds stay in (or drop out of) high school? Why might a man or woman stay in a situation of domestic violence? What are the possible explanations for gender inequality? What are the possible causal explanations for the Holocaust? What are the various arguments for or against affirmative action? What are the central arguments for and against capital punishment?
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