A group of wood carvers met and agreed to not deal with a few major discount chains which they determined regularly engaged in reducing the prices they charged by 15 or more percent less than the retail price charged at a competing retailer for the exact same merchandise. The wood carvers were concerned with the maintenance of the perception of their quality and exclusiveness. This decision amongst the wood carvers:

is valid because of their need to protect their product.

violates the Sherman Act because it is a boycott.

is valid because the rule of reason applies and they have a valid reason.

none of the above