Research

My research addresses a central question in international relations: How do states think about the value of territory? 

Existing scholarship primarily emphasizes two dimensions—the material value

derived from resources and the constructed value rooted in nationalism. 

However, current literature overlooks a critical third dimension: the strategic value of territorial depth. Territory provides states with strategic depth by creating space that buffers and protects their core political and military centers from external threats. 

By unpacking states into core areas and frontlines, the concept of strategic depth provides a unique geospatial view of states’ territorial incentives, distinct from purely material or nationalistic motivations.

Research proposal available upon request.