This paper is a preliminary discussion of a line of social inquiry stimulated by interest in both the continuing pluralistic nature of society and the continued support for alternative educational systems among various segments of the society. In a society where public education is increasingly becoming a monopoly, the question of free choice and the motive behind the free choices seem to be a ripe field for research and social investigation. Ten research topics are suggested that are aimed at furthering knowledge about private education and the contributions that it may be able to make to policy formulation in the educational and social sphere. Topics are the analysis of nonpublic, or private schools, in terms of (1) their use by inner city Blacks and Hispanics, (2) parental involvement, (3) local control, (4) as alternative education, (5) social integration, (6) their influence on white people moving out of racially integrating neighborhoods, (7) neighborhood viability, (8) productivity and achievement, (9) classroom environment, and (10) bureaucratic structure. (Author/MLF)