Final answer:
Out of the given options, a popular but easily copied restaurant recipe does not constitute a barrier to entry as it can be replicated without legal restrictions, unlike a patented invention or a strong brand name, which are significant barriers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question revolves around identifying which of the given options is not a major source of barriers to entry. Barriers to entry are various obstacles that prevent new competitors from easily entering an industry or area of business. Brand identity and cost advantages independent of size are indeed significant barriers to entry.
a. A patented invention is a government-enforced barrier to entry as it grants exclusive rights to the patent holder.
b. A popular but easily copied restaurant recipe does not involve a barrier to entry because it can be replicated without legal consequences.
c. An industry where economies of scale are very small compared to the size of demand in the market typically does not have a barrier to entry related to economies of scale.
d. A well-established reputation for slashing prices in response to new entry can be classified as a practice to intimidate the competition, which is a barrier to entry not government-enforced.
e. A well-respected brand name that has been carefully built up over many years is a barrier to entry not government-enforced, as it can deter new firms due to customer loyalty and recognition.