Affecting I.R. of Iran's Defense Policy; In the Light of the Utilization of Cultural Resources of Soft Power

Desired and efficient decisions and policies in defense policy require the maximum utilization of hard and soft resources. Among this resources, cultural sources of soft power can be used to affect defense policy. This study aims to examine and analyze the affect Islamic Republic of Iran's defense policy in light of the utilization of soft power cultural resources. To reach this goal, data were collected using the documentary (field) and field (interview) method, then qualitatively analyzed through open and axial coding. The statistical population of this research consisted of 22 professors, experts, researchers and executives in the field of research who were selected by snowball sampling method. The results of the interviews with experts suggest that the utilization of cultural resources to the soft power of the I.R. of Iran has an efficient role in affecting the decision of defense policy makers, shaping defense policy data, and facilitating the achievement of defense and military goals. Signs of this efficiency include shaping the mental structure of defense policy makers, activating and mobilizing defense policy, trusting in God, patience and endurance, utilizing scientific solutions in policymaking, order and coherence in the process of defense policy, mobilization of people, morale-boosting, self-esteem and confidence, efficent deterrence, and so on.