Commentary Khatami's Reelection and Prospects for Iran's Modernization

The author argues that it is important to find ways to close the existing gap between Iran and the West and deal with Iranians’ historical concerns about becoming developed He briefly reviews Irans social and political systems in the nineteen and twentieth centuries. With an emphasis on president Khatami’s reelection, he asserts that Iran is gradually moving toward modernity and democracy. Obviously in this process of democratization, there is a likelihood of a clash between modern and traditional values. In an orderly and rational manner, the government must formulate and implement far-reaching and all-encompassing development programs. This is the challenge during Mr. Khatami’s Second term.