Final answer:
Defining ethics more narrowly aligning it with legality is the least likely action to restore trust in the free-market system. Stricter laws, punishments for lawbreakers, and increased leader accountability are more effective measures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The action that is LEAST likely to restore the trust of the American public in the free-market system would be defining the concept of ethics more narrowly, and making the definition closer to the definition of legality. This approach could actually blur the line between ethical behavior and mere legal compliance, potentially allowing unethical actions to go unchallenged if they do not strictly break the law. Actions that have proven more effective in restoring trust include passing stricter accounting and financial reporting laws, punishing those who have broken the law, and enacting new laws to make business, religious, and government leaders more accountable for their actions. These measures adhere to fundamental principles such as accountability, just laws, open government, and the prevention of market failures through measures like anti-monopoly legislation and public disclosure.