North Central Sociological Association Presidential Address: Micro Lessons for the Macro World

Abstract

Microsociological studies employ a variety of techniques to examine relationships between social actors. Some of these studies focus on real-world situations and strive for high levels of face validity. Others focus on abstract social situations and strive for theoretical validity. This paper examines three areas of research that employ the latter approach to identify theoretical principles that produce valuable insights about real-world issues. Illustrations of the principles are presented as examples of the value of abstract, theoretical, experimental work in understanding events in the “real” world.