Iranian Modernity: A Critique of Ali Mirsepasi’s Viowpoint

The purpose of this study was to review and criticize the theory of Iranian modernity, Ali Mirsepasi, as one of the most important analyses that has been done on the Iranian in face of modernity which has tried to present multiple models of modernity as a new theory. The current study has used the analytical-critical method, while analyzing the main features of the theory of Iranian modernity, evaluating and criticizing its critical and positive aspects in the study of contemporary Iranian developments. Shortcomings of his analysis include paying great attention to the intellectual and cultural aspects of Iranian modernity while not paying attention to the structural and institutional aspects of it which effects the development of modernity. Moreover role of intellectuals in promoting political Islam and traditional forces and institutions in the Islamic Revolution have not been addressed. One of the most important findings of the current research is shedding light on positive aspects of his proposed model, which is based on the diversity of cultural and historical experiences of modernity and the attempt to draw a non-European-oriented image of it. The general result of this research indicates that the theory of Iranian modernity, while presenting a new approach and perspective to the study of contemporary Iranian history, postpones some of its crucial aspects emphasizing the need for new research.