Step 1: Realist Tradition Overview.
Political realism centers on National Interest as the primary driver of statecraft, emphasizing a state's power, security, and survival in the global arena.
Step 2: Analysis of options.
- (A) National Interest: Realism posits that a state's actions are primarily motivated by its national interest, encompassing survival, security, and economic strength.
- (B) Universal brotherhood: This concept is more aligned with idealism and contradicts the realist tradition's pragmatic, self-interest-driven approach.
- (C) Moral Principles: While morality may play a role in policy, realism is predominantly grounded in pragmatic concerns, not moral ideals.
- (D) Cross-border flows and common values: This emphasizes cooperation and shared values, aligning it with liberal theories rather than realist principles.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Option (A), National Interest, is the correct answer. Realism prioritizes national interest as the core motivator behind state actions.