Theoretical Pattern of Revolutionary Change in Iran

From among the possible types of social transformations, revolution occurs in some societies, while social changes are made in certain other societies without resort to revolutionary violence in line with national goals. Revolutionary change usually ensues the failure of non-revolutionary changes and is often characterized by deep dissatisfaction with the existing conditions, the expansion of new ideologies, intensified revolutionary fever, mobilizing political-social structures, popular participation, violent struggle and the replacement of the previous order with a new system. Iran has experienced a variety of revolutionary and evolutionary changes the latest of which is the Islamic Revolution. If one can offer a theoretical pattern for revolutionary changes in the Iranian society, then this pattern might be used in practice for strategic purposes thus while avoiding violent consequences of revolutionary changes, national goals may be achieved. In the Iranian society, revolutionary potential is always found. Change in the objective and institutional conditions of a society is a starting point for revolutionary change which in the case of availability of sufficient requirements (leadership, organization, and ideology) leads the revolutionary transformation into its ultimate end. This author tries to draw a theoretical pattern of revolutionary change in the Iranian society, while explaining revolution and revolutionary change.