The basic independent unit of world politics is a nation. A nation refers to a group of people who share a common language, culture, and history, and often desire self-determination or sovereignty. It is the appropriate answer as it represents a cohesive entity that interacts with other nations in the international arena based on its own political, economic, and diplomatic agenda. The term "country" can be used interchangeably with nation, as it also refers to a self-governing political entity with defined borders and sovereignty, making it an apt choice for the basic independent unit of world politics.
