When I asked the question I was referring to the fact that none of these four imams ever had spent time with or lived with the prophet SAW despite being close to the prophet saw time.
A person in these days has not only the information from quran and hadith but the work of all these imams.
If the person chooses to first bypass what these imams presented by directly searching the quran and hadiths and then look for ANY of these imams for guidance especially if the question is not answered, then the person still be a good muslim.
Whatever works for this individual’s need should be acceptable.
Following any ‘part’ of these imams teachings should be considered valid and sticking to just one imam in every aspect of life is bound to create unnecessary difference.
Hence, my position.
No need to follow one school of thought all the way. People are adamant about sticking to one madhab and even consider it sin if someone does something based on other madhab teachings.