The Problem with the Development of Civil Society in Iran

In social science the term “civil society”, as against state, is applied to a field of social relations which is untouched by political power and includes civil and private institutions, associations and foundations. If we take state to be characterized by authoritative power construct, it can be said that the civil society lacks such a construct. The early manifestations of civil society existed in the feudalist era and the Middle Ages in Europe. Generally civil society is applied to the field of civil rights of individuals and groups, natural rights, laissez-faire economy and cultural area. Civil society plays an important role in the participation of different social groups and the mobilization of people in decision-making and the elections. The role of civil society in the political, social and economic development of a country is undeniable; however, it has not played its part in Iran and has not accomplished its historical mission. The main questions of this article are as follows: what problems and drawbacks have been hindrances to the development of civil society in Iran? Why was the civil society thwarted and driven out at the periods of time when the civil society was the most brilliant institution of Iran? Why are these institutions conquered by the power of state, and cannot they defend themselves? To answer these questions and examine the reasons for the failure of civil society in Iran, three important factors, with regard to historical evidence, can be highlighted. Also, the concepts of political development and political culture will be analyzed.