Matin Research Journal

Matin Research Journal

An Analysis of Attitudinal Transformations in Iran: Continuity and Change in Political Orientations

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Parvin Alipoor 1
Manouchehr Rashadi 2
1 Assistant Professor, Institute of Social Studies and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Imam Ali Research Institute, Institute of Humanities and Social Studies, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/matin.2023.423741.2217
Abstract
The issue of identity holds a fundamental position in the discourse of the Islamic Revolution, as its system of meaning is constructed around the formation of a revolutionary and Islamic identity and political orientations. The importance of this issue has intensified in the current period due to confrontations against this identity and efforts to empty Iranian identity of its Islamic aspirations. Therefore, the preservation and reproduction of this identity among the younger generation should be a concern for policymakers. Drawing on the Survey of Iranian Values and Attitudes (2016-2023), this article analyzes the revolutionary identity and political preferences of Iranians, particularly the youth.
Findings indicate that revolutionary identity, especially among the youth, has declined in some key categories but still remains in an acceptable state. However, the ideological preferences of the respondents reveal widespread dissatisfaction with the status quo; 57.6% of all respondents and an even larger proportion of the youth believe the country's situation requires reform or fundamental change. This indicates a tendency toward more radical preferences.
This trend recalls Maurice Duverger's warning about the consequences of the people's disconnection from revolutionary ideology, such as a crisis of legitimacy. Therefore, it is necessary for authorities to consolidate the foundations of the revolution and avoid futile polarization through discourse formation, providing open social and political spaces, and addressing reformist and radical demands.
Keywords
Iranians
political preferences
youth
attitudes
revolutionary identity

Subjects

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Matin Research Journal
Volume 27, Issue 108
Autumn 2025
Pages 69-96