At the juncture of east and west, north and south, Iran sits at the crossroads of European and Asian culture and history. This pivotal location gives Iran crucial political and economic roles in the region, but makes it vulnerable to attack from the outside. Given this complexity, how do Iranians see the world around them?
A thoughtful examination from numerous perspectives, "The Shaping of Iran Today" explores the paradox of Iran a nation that may at first glance seem to be planted firmly in the Middle East, but that has a unique and separate culture, and much in common with the west. The book examines Iran over the course of 3,000 years of history to help readers understand all that has shaped present-day Iranian culture and the views of Iranians.
Modern Iranian society is shaped by many things, and as students read through the text they will learn about: Geology and Geography; Social Institutions; Family and Marriage; Social Inequality; Religion; and Demographics.
The book explores such diverse topics as the changing role of Iranian cities, the treatment of the elderly, and falling birth rates. Readers will gain insight into the role of contemporary Iran as the center of Persian culture, an OPEC member, and a major player on the global stage.
Written with great sensitivity and an intimate knowledge of the nation and her people, "The Shaping of Iran Today" gives readers a deeper understanding of Iran past and present.
Grant Farr earned his Ph.D. in sociology at the University of Washington. He is Professor Emeritus of Sociology at Portland State University, where in addition to teaching he served as Chair of the Department of Sociology, Director of the Middle East Studies Center, Vice-Provost for International Affairs, and Associate Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. He has conducted field research throughout the Middle East, including Afghanistan, Iran, and Central Asia, and taught at both Pahlavi University (now the University of Shiraz), and the University of Peshawar, Pakistan. His books include "Modern Iran, Global Societies," and "Afghan Resistance.""