Understanding the Structures and Contents of National Interests: An Analysis of Structural Equation Modeling

Scholars of international relations have consistently applied a single indicator to represent state interests. However, the concept of national interest will be elusive if we consider using only a single variable. The author proposes and estimates a hierarchically organized state interest structure in which specific interests are de rived from abstract values. These objectives in turn are assumed to be constrained by core values about a state’s vital interests in international society. Applying confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) by LISREL, the empirical results suggest that spe cific interests can be structured based on three major objectives that describe the general direction the government should take in international affairs: security, economic development, and community interest. These measures provide better theoretical and empirical representations for what we understand about state interests in world politics.