This book contains the most detailed and comprehensive statement of Homa Katouzian's theory of arbitrary state and society in Iran, and its applications to Iranian history and politics, both modern and traditional. Every chapter is a study of its own specific topics while being firmly a part of the whole argument. The discussions include close comparisons with the history of Europe to demonstrate the diversities of the logic and sociology of Iranian history from their European counterparts. Being the first modern theory of Iranian history, it is highly regarded by Iranian historians and...

This work offers a view of Iran through politics, history and literature, showing how the three angles combine. The author also offers a detailed description of Iran's short-term society, examining the political and intellectual lives of two of the most remarkable intellectuals-cum-politicians of the twentieth century.