A(n) would tell quinton that he should return unauthorized competitive information to its owner without examining it, even though the information would more than likely result in a large commission for quinton.

fixed point of reference.

Explanation:

Filling in the gap in the question, we have;

"A(n) FIXED POINT OF REFERENCE would tell Quinton that he should return unauthorized competitive information to its owner without examining it, even though the information would more than likely result in a large commission for Quinton''

To human beings, A fixed point of reference is some kind of 'stimuli' that gives one a response to any situation. A fixed reference point seek to find or establish a solution, it is also use for discussing, evaluating, and judging other parameters.

c. wright mills's sociological imagination suggest investigating to explain this increase?

fertile good for trade etc