In the context of labor relations, what is a boycott?

A boycott involves a decision by individuals or groups to abstain from purchasing goods or services from a particular company, typically to protest against its practices, policies, or treatment of workers. This economic action is often used as a form of pressure on the company to change its behavior or address specific grievances, making it a powerful tool in labor relations and social activism. By refusing to buy products, participants in a boycott aim to harm the company's sales and draw public attention to the issues at hand, thereby increasing the chances of achieving their objectives.

The other options touch on different aspects of labor relations but do not specifically define a boycott. Refusing to work under certain conditions relates more to a work stoppage or strike, a public demonstration is an event highlighting social or labor issues but is distinct from a boycott, and a negotiation tactic focuses on discussions rather than economic withdrawal. Understanding the specific definition and implications of a boycott is crucial for grasping its role in labor movements and consumer action.