Final answer:
Mercantilism is the economic philosophy that encourages control over imports and utilization of colonies for raw materials and markets for manufactured goods. The correct option is A.
Step-by-step explanation:
The economic philosophy that emphasizes control of imports to increase a nation's prosperity and views colonies primarily as sources of raw materials and markets for manufactured goods is known as mercantilism. This policy was prevalent from the 16th to the 18th century and was based on the belief that the world's wealth was quantified in terms of gold and silver, which was thought to be finite.
To enrich itself, a mercantilist nation would maximize exports and minimize imports, accruing precious metals and maintaining a favorable balance of trade. Governments imposed high tariffs and granted monopolies to control trade and promote domestic manufacturing, often using their colonies to supply raw materials and as markets for their goods.