What action is taken during a boycott?

The chosen answer, which involves refusing to buy goods or services, accurately describes the essence of a boycott. A boycott is a collective action taken by individuals or groups to withdraw their support—typically in the form of failing to purchase certain goods or services—as a method of protest. This is often done to express discontent with practices of a company or organization or to bring about change in policy or behavior.

Boycotts may arise in response to various issues such as ethical concerns, labor practices, environmental impact, or social justice matters. By refusing to purchase a product, participants aim to exert economic pressure on the targeted entity, ultimately hoping to compel them to change their actions or policies.

The other options describe different scenarios that do not align with the fundamental nature of a boycott. Purchasing from competitors suggests a different strategy that doesn't focus on protest but rather on shifting allegiance based on preferences. Promoting a new product involves active endorsement and support, which contradicts the principle of withdrawal that defines a boycott. Lobbying for legislative changes pertains to advocacy and influencing decision-makers, which is distinct from the economic withdrawal characteristic of a boycott. Thus, refusing to buy goods or services encapsulates the core action of a boycott effectively.