After the Islamic Revolution of 1979, Iran underwent profound sociopolitical changes, took a radical ideological and revolutionary discourse, distanced itself from the international community, and ultimately slid in isolation and disregard. The image of Iran as portrayed by the Western media, and even as displayed by the Islamic Republic outlets, is tinted with radical frenzy. The word Iran often triggers multiple connotations of authoritarian rule, Islamic law, theocracy, war, conflict, instability, and antagonism. These associations and impressions may be factual, but they are naïve and partial narratives that do not tell the whole story. Beyond the myopic image of the media, under the heavy veil of isolation, and behind the revolutionary discourse of ruling clerics, there is a vibrant culture, a sizeable economy, and a buoyant population. Despite the decades of international sanctions, Iran is still the 19th largest economy of the world and is recognized as one of the most stable and influential countries of the Middle East. The country represents a large regional economy with a strategic location in the Persian Gulf and Central Asia, a huge consumer market, tremendous natural resources, and numerous industries that require hefty investment and development. Iran is rather a complex and puzzling country with a diverse population and a peculiar, ancient, and boisterous history. Iran is located in the Middle East but lies at the crossroads of Asian civilizations. It is overwhelmingly Muslim but differs from many other Muslim countries. It has been torn and split between the West and the East but has never been colonialized. Iran is the distinct land of Aryans among the Arabs, Indians, Turks, and Europeans. It is a multifaceted, sophisticated, and paradoxical nation.
This book is designed to provide a better understanding of Iran; its society, culture, and business altogether. Understanding the country requires a holistic approach as in Iran religion, society, culture, economy, politics, and family are intimately intertwined. For this reason, the book adopts a broad scope and relies on a wide range of academic and professional resources to bring insights into the Iranian context. It tries to bridge theory and practice by offering a reasonable blend of academic perspective and practical expertise. It aims at offering an analytical, readable, relatively comprehensive, and supposedly impartial account. This book can be considered as a valuable reference for business managers, political analysts, policy makers, scholars, students, and all those who are concerned with the Iranian affairs.
The present volume consists of 14 chapters organized in two parts. Part 1 touches upon the broader social and historical conditions and moves progressively from the physical geography and current issues to sociopolitical system and geopolitical environment. Part 2 is devoted to more practical topics including national culture, negotiation and communication styles, economic system, energy market, nonoil sectors, business environment, and consumer behavior. While the chapters are interrelated, they stand relatively distinct from each other and offer the convenience of being consulted separately.