The Puzzle of Despotism and Democracy in Iran

The flourishing of human life depends on the formation and development of democratic institutions through which the best modes of coexistence are learned. These institutions are not necessarily concrete mechanisms, structures, or frameworks, but rather encompass the ethics and values of a society. According to many, Iranians have encountered valuable opportunities at various historical turning points to establish and develop these institutions; however, for various reasons, these opportunities have dissipated and vanished. This book attempts to discuss and clarify the causes behind this phenomenon by rethinking the role of internal institutions (contrasting with conspiracy theories) and thereby opens a window to reexamine some of the most significant events in Iran’s contemporary history.