The Journey to Democracy in Iran

History is often lauded for its objectivity, serving as an unflinching record of past events, and while it doesn’t possess the ability to conceal, it often reveals the depths of human error alongside triumph. A consistent theme across various historical epochs—be it in warfare, social movements, or even the realms of science and art—is the…

Many religious organizations operate within hierarchical structures that can lead to unequal treatment based on gender, sexual orientation, or class. This framework often results in a concentration of power among specific groups, while marginalizing others. For example, in certain branches of some religions, leadership roles are exclusively reserved for men. This exclusion limits women’s participation…

Flawed Foreign Policies and Their Consequences The calamities unfolding in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza and Syria, are the result of decades of flawed foreign policies. Over the last fifty years, poorly conceived strategies have led to mass killings, migrations, and the rise of authoritarian regimes like Russia and China. These global powers now…

Understanding “Isthmus Rulers” and Their Authoritarian Tactics As we reflect on Middle Eastern governance, the concept of “Isthmus rulers” offers a key insight. These small, ruthless factions operate like bottlenecks in governance, where a minority maintains control through terror and disenfranchisement. Unlike traditional governments, they rely on mercenaries and mobs rather than a legitimate military…

Where the west went wrong? Plato, many centuries ago, warned of the dangers inherent in unchecked freedom, suggesting that the most extreme liberty can lead to the harshest forms of tyranny and slavery. He described democracy as a charming yet chaotic form of government, offering equality indiscriminately to both equals and unequals. While Western societies…

Education often presents itself as a double-edged sword in the landscape of religious and cultural superstitions. On one hand, a robust education system that prioritizes extensive reading and access to a broad range of texts can enhance individuals’ understanding of their own religious doctrines, potentially leading to a deepening of faith. This aspect encourages a…