In his book "The Return of Marco Polo's World," Robert D. Kaplan discusses the complex relationship between a nation's interests and its values, specifically in the context of the United States as a great power. He acknowledges that while the U.S. strives to reflect its values, its national interests do not always align with those ideals, resulting in a tragic but undeniable reality. This tension between interests and values is a fundamental aspect of international relations that must be recognized.

Kaplan’s insights emphasize that embracing this contradiction is crucial for understanding the role of the U.S. on the global stage. Many decisions made in the interest of national security or economic advantage may not resonate with the values Americans hold dear. Accepting this dilemma enables a clearer perspective on foreign policy challenges and the necessity of balancing principled stances with pragmatic actions in the ever-complex geopolitical landscape.