Course Description
Summary
This course is designed to introduce students to the history, politics, and values of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The focus will be on the 20th century and the circumstances that paved the way for the 1979 revolution and establishment of a totalitarian theocracy called the “Islamic Republic”. The course covers both the domestic and foreign policy of the country with special attention to a particular version of Shia Islam that is the state’s governing ideology. The course will examine Iran’s nuclear strategy, its view of international law and customs, and its persistent animosity toward the United States. Domestic topics include class and culture divides, tradition vs. modernity, the political economy of oil, religion and national identity, revolutionary pretension and performance, and the state’s treatment of dissent and criticism. The courageous rebellion of young people, particularly women, challenging the legitimacy and reactionary views of the theocracy will be examined in detail.
Course dates: March 20, 23, 27, 30; April 3 6
