The ups and downs of the development experience with a revolutionary approach with emphasis on Jihad-e Sazandeghi

Rural development, both in terms of approach and policy implementation, has been one of the development concerns of developing countries. In terms of approach, the question has always been whether rural development should follow the techno-bureaucratic approach (from above) or the participatory approach (from below). Which approaches have been sound and valid has always been overshadowed by intellectual-ideological debates. Because the revolution paved the way for the following of alternative approaches to development beyond conventional pre-revolutionary approaches, which relied on less successful experiences with top-down approaches, and this was better reflected in the establishment and evolution of Jihad-e Sazandeghi. Therefore, this article studies the experience of rural development with regard to the ups and downs of the Jihad. Having Explained the Jihad's formation, the article concludes that, first; the top-down approach has gradually given way to the down-top approach, which has been at odds with its existential philosophy. Second, inspired by Michels's theory of bureaucratization, it argues that the Jihad's development goal has gradually been overshadowed by non-developmental functions such as maintaining organization and governing relations. Third, inspired by Ferguson's theory of being consequential of any action or development plan, it argues that the extensive measures of the Jihad in implementing rural projects, especially infrastructure, have had various impacts such as reducing urban and rural gaps and integrating rural communities in society. Therefor these developmental initiatives have provided more macro and qualitative effects that should be regarded as long lasting.