Is Iran Ripe For a New Revolution?
Abstract
The study of revolution is a very popular and intriguing realm of social science. Iran has been undergoing a persistent state of upheaval since the fall of the Shah in 1979. Previous study on revolutions by scholars like Theodore Gurr, Theda Skocpol, and Jack Goldstone, suggest that within the context of a revolution, the final results are never readily apparent because people rebel against the status quo and destroy associated institutions whether or not they had a positive influence. The passage of time, leads to a pendulum shift from one extreme towards moderation. Iran went from a pro-western secular stance to an anti-western theocracy; therefore the question arises whether Iran is ripe for a new revolution that may bring about a healthier equilibrium? Using the framework set by Theodore Gurr in his book Why Men Rebel, this work is attempts to analyze how Relative Deprivation has affected Iran. This method of measuring discontent will be used to see how the opposition stands up to the status quo in order to determine how the latter will end thus restoring the equilibrium, which has been proven throughout history and is elaborated upon by the above mentioned scholars of revolutionary movements and social upheaval.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA418208
Entities
People
- Frank E. Okata
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School