Procedurality and relativity as aspects of methodology in researching national competitiveness

In the discourse surrounding national competitiveness, there exists a need for a comprehensive methodology that transcends conventional approaches. This article proposes an authorial methodology for studying issues of national competitiveness, based on the analysis of criticism directed towards the productivity-based approach and the factor-based approach to assessing national competitiveness. The methodology delineates two aspects: procedural and relative, each characterizing distinct dimensions of a state’s competitive standing in the global economic landscape. The procedural aspect pertains to the degree of state involvement and its role in global economic processes, while the relative aspect is associated with a state's capacity to convert internal and attracted resources into tangible achievements within the structure of the global economy and world trade. Despite potential discrepancies between the two aspects, they are deeply interrelated, forming a cohesive framework for understanding and assessing national competitiveness. In conclusion, this article underscores the importance of adopting a multifaceted approach to studying national competitiveness. By recognizing the procedural and relative dimensions, researchers can gain deeper insights into the complexities of global economic dynamics and inform policy decisions accordingly. Future research endeavors should explore empirical applications of the proposed methodology across diverse national contexts. Additionally, comparative studies could shed light on the differential impacts of procedural and relative factors on national competitiveness outcomes.