national interest

The national interest refers to the collective interests of a nation, viewed as a distinct entity separate from the interests of its subgroups or other nations. In political science, particularly within international relations, the concept of national interest is central to realist theory.12

Realism posits that states operate in an anarchic international system, relying on their own capabilities to advance their national interests. The primary national interest is the survival of the state, encompassing its people, political system, and territorial integrity. Other key interests include preserving culture and the economy. Realists argue that the pursuit of national interest is fundamental to international politics as long as the world is divided into nation-states.2

The struggle for power, manifesting as collaboration or competition, is seen as inherent to human nature and drives state interactions. While accommodation between states is possible through skilled leadership, the clash of national interests is characteristic of the anarchic system.2