The survival principle states that A. the only firms that survive are those that maximize profits. B. firms must undertake social objectives to survive. C. the only firms that survive are those that maximize revenue. D. managers who fail to maximize profits should be disciplined.

The survival principle states that

A. the only firms that survive are those that maximize profits.

Explanation:

Profit maximization is important for a firm to survive.  Without profit maximization, firms fail.  Profits impact share price, business growth, and short-term and long-term survival.  Profits reduce debt burden, and increase capital investments and acquisitions.  Without profits, a firm cannot pay dividends or repurchase shares.  Profit is at the center of a firm's survival.  Even Baumol's theory of sales maximization states that it is only when an acceptable level of profit has been achieved that a firm can shift its focus away from profits to revenue maximization.  This emphasizes the importance of profit maximization.  Profit maximization also contributes to the maximization of cash flows.

the third answer is correct.