Science and Iranian Modernity

The relationship between modernity and Iran, and how it entered and manifested in this land, has always been a controversial and important subject that has led many intellectuals to reflect and write about it. The book “Science and Iranian Modernity” by Taghi Azad Armaki, an Iranian university professor and sociologist, is considered one of the best authored works in this field. According to the author, there are multiple interpretations involved in the formation of Iranian modernity. Some view Iran as backward, while others see it as underdeveloped. The discourse of backwardness rejects any kind of reform and demands comprehensive destruction. Conversely, the discourse of underdevelopment believes that Iran has achieved some degree of development, but compared to the West, it always experiences developmental delay. Therefore, every government is critical of its predecessor, believing that the former failed to institutionalize comprehensive progress and development, while the current government asserts it has exerted all efforts to prioritize such advancement. One consequence of this viewpoint, which traces back to traditional times and results from not recognizing the legitimacy of previous governments and dynasties, is that Iranians throughout history have repeatedly experienced conflicts, rebellions, political and social crises, revolutions, wars, and natural disasters. These numerous afflictions have shaped Iranians into a unique nation; yet they remain confused and uncertain about their exact historical position and the reasons for their global status. Although the author strives to answer these questions to the best of his ability, he admits that Iranian modernity, with all its fluctuations, remains a topic of ongoing debate. Many continue to argue about its possibility or impossibility, and the discussions on this subject are incessant.