Which of the following actions is inconsistent with the beliefs of the Progressive movement?

a. Allowing big business to function without any government restraint

b. Decreasing the number of monopolies and business trusts

c. Authorizing government inspection of the meat industry

d. Demanding the adoption of fair child labor laws

The Progressive era was a period during which much scrutiny was placed on large corporations. The horrors of child labor, the cruel actions of the 19th century robber barons, and esposes such as The Jungle all brought to light these negative aspects of industry. As such, tight regulations were enacted and trust-busting measures were taken. However, the one of the above which is inconsistent with that is "a. Allowing big business to function without any government restraint".

The Progressive movement was strongly focused on de-concentrating power from corporations and wealthy individuals, as well a protecting the well-being of common citizens. As such, there was a strong focus on trust-busting, regulation, and other related actions.

However, answer a. "Allowing big business to function without any government restraint" definitely runs counter to these values, and thus is the correct answer here.