Document Type : Research Paper
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Abstract
Present paper investigates the structure of the middle class (with a focus on new middle class) in Iran. Methodologically this paper is analytical. For data gathering documentary method was used. Theoretical framework for analysis is based on theories of Max Weber & Antonym Giddines. For in these two theoreticians’ views, three criteria of wealth, status and power (social and economic status as well as efficiency and expertise) are used to distinguish social classes and strata. (New) Middle class mainly consists of beaurocrats. Although some of them are economically weak, due to the level of their expertise and education they are considered as the members of the middle class. The concept of New Middle class in Iran is formed as a consequence of relation with the west, and its process is not as the same as western countries. Hence the concept of middle class does not have the same sense as in the west. Iran’s Middle class is an outcome of modernization which has been imported from western countries and developed since Mashroute revolution. In conclusion, while the discourse of enlightment is democratic, middle class is created and developed as a concentration of enlightment.
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