Question

which argument would a critic of big business most likely have raised during the second industrial revolution? big businesses are less likely to adopt new technologies than small businesses. big businesses may act unfairly, but government officials must not violate their laissez faire. big business owners often give back to society through acts of philanthropy. big businesses mistreat workers and consumers because they hold too much power.

Explanation:

During the Second Industrial Revolution, critics of big - business often pointed out their abuse of power. Big businesses, due to their large - scale operations and significant influence, could mistreat workers by providing poor working conditions and low wages, and mistreat consumers through monopolistic practices. The other options either paint a positive view of big business or are not typical criticisms.

Answer:

D. Big businesses mistreat workers and consumers because they hold too much power.