چكيده لاتين
In the rapidly evolving landscape of global transformations, Iran is also facing extensive changes across various fields. In such an environment, where an uncertain future stands like a blank canvas awaiting the creation of new images, a precise and profound understanding of emerging perspectives holds significant importance for policymaking and strategic decision-making. Intellectuals, as pioneers of thought and guides of reason, play a crucial role in shaping visions of the future and proposing innovative solutions to forthcoming challenges through their deep reflections and creativity. This research aims to explore and analyze the views of 20 prominent contemporary Iranian intellectuals regarding the future of Iran.
Using qualitative content analysis, 1,100 documents—including articles, books, interviews, speeches, notes, and other works related to these intellectuals—were collected and examined. From this analysis, 3,846 initial codes were extracted, which were then reviewed and synthesized into 76 final keywords. The findings reveal a broad spectrum of insights and perspectives on Iran’s future, ranging from idealistic and optimistic views to realistic and cautious outlooks. This diversity of viewpoints provides a dynamic and multifaceted picture of the potential futures of Iran.
The final analysis identified three key patterns shaping Iran’s future: First, the “Rediscovered Identity,” reflecting efforts to re-evaluate and revive authentic Iranian and Islamic values in contrast to modern conditions; second, the “Crossroads of Modernity,” addressing the complex challenges of Iran’s transition from tradition to modernity and the intricate interaction between the two, marking a critical juncture in Iranian history; and third, the “Chaotic Economics,” highlighting the political and economic instability and complexities Iran faces amidst global changes and its struggle to achieve stability and progress. Each of these patterns represents potential and complex trajectories that Iran’s future might take.
Ultimately, this research provides a deeper insight into the potential, desirable, and alternative futures of Iran, opening a new window for a better understanding of the paths ahead. The findings of this study offer valuable guidance for policymakers, planners, intellectuals, and society in charting clearer routes toward a sustainable and desirable future.