Exploring the Iran Case

Abstract

While the last chapter concentrated on the theoretical discourse underpinning this book, this chapter explores the relevant historical context up to the rise of the reform movement. Rather than an exhaustive account of Iranian history or literature, the aim is to provide a snapshot of how civil society played decisive roles in key moments of the country’s modern history and helped shape present-day Iranian society. The issues explored in this chapter allow for a more complete understanding of the situation as it existed when reformists came to utilize civil society for the purpose of enhancing political and social power.