A critical reflection on the modern state Pahlavi I with an emphasis on the characteristics of a fragile state

Document Type : ..

Authors

1 political science, ferdowsi university , Mashhad, Iran

2 Ferdowsi University of Mashhad

10.30465/hcs.2021.35339.2401

Abstract

The state as the most important political institution is a modern phenomenon whose critical reflection on how it is formed and functions can reveal many facts about a political system. Due to the importance of the state, many theories have been developed about it, of which the "fragile state" is just one. A weak and fragile state is a relatively comprehensive theory that examines the state, stability, and the realization of the existential goals of a state by examining several indicators. A fragile state is a state that lacks the capacity to control and influence society, regulate social relations, and authoritatively allocate resources. The fragility indicators of the state are a suitable criterion and platform by which one can speak of the success or failure of societies in modern state-building. Accordingly, this study is based on the question of the fragility of the modern democratic state in Iran during the first Pahlavi era. It seams; The process of modern state-building that Reza Shah was considered the founder of; He was not very faithful to the characteristics of a modern democratic state; Because this process took place in this period, it was authoritarian and Reza Shah could not create the necessary logical balance between the different areas of state building. Building a kingdom based on traditional thought was at odds with his efforts to overthrow modern society; A contradiction that had been the twin of this dynasty until the end of Pahlavi's life. In this article, in seeking the reasons for Reza Shah's failure in the project of modern democratic state-building, the theoretical framework of the fragile state of "Carmen and Sami" is emphasized; It addresses the fragility that has its roots in major crises within society, as well as in the functioning of the political system. The theoretical foundation of this paper is based on the fragile state theory and the comparative historical method in the sociological-historical approach.

Keywords

References

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Historical Studies
Volume 12, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
spring and summer
September 2021
Pages 49-72

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