Question

are interest rates a goal or a means?

Answer 1

Interest rate are considered to be as a goal not the means . Having a stable interest rate with keeping all the factors of economy in mind is a goal of government as well as Federal .

When prices are stable, long-term interest rates remain at moderate levels, so the goals of price stability and moderate long-term interest rates go together.

The Fed seeks to achieve its monetary policy mandate by influencing interest rates and general financial conditions. For example, by keeping policy interest rates low, the Fed makes homes more affordable for consumers and makes it cheaper for businesses to invest, expand, and hire. And by raising policy interest rates when inflation pressures are building, the Fed helps to cool the economy and preserve price stability.

Hence interest rate are considered to be goals