Final answer:
A mass refusal to do business with a company is called a boycott. It is a form of protest that can influence company policies or practices and has been used effectively in various social and political causes, such as the civil rights movement and international relations.
Step-by-step explanation:
A mass refusal to do business with a company is called a boycott. Boycotts are a form of protest where consumers avoid purchasing products or services from a company as a means of expressing disapproval or forcing change in the company's policies or practices. This nonviolent method has been an effective way of bringing attention to a cause and influencing social or political change. For instance, during the civil rights movement, figures like Rosa Parks and other Black protesters showed their opposition to segregation through forms of boycott, such as refusing to sit at the back of the bus, which was a profound example of peaceful protest and social activism.
Businesses refusing to adapt to the ethical demands or cultural norms of their community, like not selling to minorities or underpaying women and minorities, may face a boycott as a result of their actions, which can negatively impact their bottom line. For example, the economic boycott of Iran by the United States and other countries effectively pressured Iran to halt its nuclear energy program. Boycotts, much like tariffs and economic sanctions, can serve as a powerful tool to influence international relations and domestic policies.