Leveraging one's academic prowess is a vital tool in selecting the most optimal Private Investigator (PI). The decision-making process requires a deep understanding of human behavior, legal frameworks, economic considerations, and technological advancements. The right questions must be asked to assure you are making the most informed choice.

To begin, a comprehensive understanding of PI's professional background is critical. Determine if the PI has an academic background in a relevant field such as criminal justice, law enforcement or even psychology. Psychology, an academic discipline that studies human behavior, might seem an odd choice. However, PIs frequently rely on behavioral profiling techniques in their investigations, making this a suitable background. The same goes for criminal justice and law enforcement – these fields provide foundational knowledge in legal processes, and the rules and regulations that govern the PI profession.

Secondly, inquire about the PI's professional experience. In the field of economics, there's a concept known as "the learning-by-doing effect" that essentially suggests productivity improves with experience. In essence, an investigator with extensive experience will likely have honed their skills and increased their efficiency over time, making them potentially more successful in their investigations.

Next, the importance of licensure cannot be overemphasized. Just like the legal profession, PIs must be licensed to operate legally. It's essential to verify the PI's license status and whether they have any past or pending disciplinary actions. This is where understanding of administrative law becomes handy, as it oversees the licensing and regulation of private investigators, among other professionals.

Investigation methods are another crucial area to explore. Does the PI rely on traditional methods like surveillance and fieldwork, or do they utilize modern technological tools, such as GPS tracking, digital forensics, or data mining? Each method has its advantages and drawbacks. Traditional surveillance methods, for instance, are time-tested but can be labor-intensive and slow. On the other hand, technological tools can expedite the investigative process, but they may raise privacy concerns and legal issues. Understanding these tradeoffs helps in aligning the PI's methods with your needs and comfort level.

Another question to pose centers on the PI's area of specialization. PIs, like many professionals, often specialize in certain types of investigations. These can range from background checks to fraud investigations, asset searches to infidelity investigations. This is akin to the medical field where doctors specialize in certain areas. Your needs should match the PI's area of expertise for optimal results.

Finally, it's integral to discuss the PI's approach to confidentiality and discretion. Ethical considerations underpin this aspect; in a sense, this is a question of applied ethics – the practical application of moral considerations. The PI should demonstrate a clear understanding and commitment to maintaining your privacy and handling your case discreetly.

In conclusion, selecting the right PI is a process that requires a thoughtful interrogation of the PI's background, methods, and ethical stance. It's an intellectual endeavor that demands a deep understanding of various fields. By asking these specific questions, one can ensure a holistic and informed decision-making process when hiring a private investigator.