Evolving Iran: An Introduction to Politics and Problems in the Islamic Republic - Softcover

Rieffer-Flanagan, Barbara Ann

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1589019784 ISBN 13: 9781589019782

Publisher: Georgetown University Press, 2013

Synopsis

Evolving Iran presents an overview of how the politics and policy decisions in the Islamic Republic of Iran have developed since the 1979 revolution and how they are likely to evolve in the near future. Despite the fact that the revolution ushered in a theocracy, its political system has largely tended to prioritize self-interest and pragmatism over theology and religious values, while continuing to reinvent itself in the face of internal and international threats.

The author also examines the prospects for democratization in Iran. Since the early years of the twentieth century, Iranians have attempted to make their political system more democratic, yet various attempts to produce a system where citizens have a meaningful voice in political decisions have failed. This book argues that greater democratization is unlikely to occur in the short term, especially in light of increased threats from the international community.

This accessible overview of Iran's political system covers a broad array of subjects, including foreign policy, human rights, women's struggle for equality, the development and evolution of elections, and the institutions of the political system including the Revolutionary Guards and Assembly of Experts. It will appeal to undergraduates and the general public who seek to understand a country and regime that has mystified Westerners for decades.

About this title

About the Author

Barbara Ann Rieffer-Flanagan is an associate professor in the Department of Political Science at Central Washington University.

Edition details

• Publisher: Georgetown University Press
• Publication date: 2013
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1589019784
• ISBN 13: 9781589019782
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 208