What is 'The National Interest'?

[footnote]

Is there any genuine objective definition of this concept?

Or, is it a concept which is subjective and determined by the government or opposing political parties of the day perhaps?

Is it simply a rousing battle cry or slogan appealling to patriotic or nationalist spirits?

Is it determined by, or even in any way connected to, 'The Will of the People' or perhaps only in the sense that going against 'The Will of the People' might be against 'The National Interest'?

Or could it be that a government would go against 'The Will of the People' in 'The National Interest'?

Certainly the two concepts can be in conflict rather than agreement i.e. higher public spending might be 'The Will of the People' but rejected by the Government as not in 'The National Interest'.

I've seen many posters connect 'The National Interest' with support for the Conservative Party but rarely with support for the Labour Party.

Is that a quirk of the politics of PH or a difference in the way the parties appeal to their supporters?

[WindyCommon]

The "National Interest" corresponds precisely with the interest of the person using the phrase.

HTH.

[footnote]

WindyCommon said:

The "National Interest" corresponds precisely with the interest of the person using the phrase.

HTH.

Perfect answer! Cheers

[Smollet]

footnote said:

WindyCommon said:

The "National Interest" corresponds precisely with the interest of the person using the phrase.

HTH.

Perfect answer! Cheers

Indeed. It is one of the most succinct and accurate explanation I think I've ever seen on PH.

[MitchT]

It's something that will benefit people with money and/or power, dressed up as something that will benefit society.