The Role of Shiism in Transforming the Idea of Political Progress into Collective Good and Action

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Baqir al-Olum University, Qom, Iran

10.22081/psq.2024.68234.2863

Abstract

This article examines the role and impact of Shiism in transforming the idea of political progress into collective good within the Islamic Republic of Iran, analyzing its multifaceted dimensions and charting a three-phase pathway to achieve this goal. In the first phase, the article highlights the essential role of four key interests—identity-based, ideological, humanitarian, and patriotic—in aligning with the goals of Shiism and fostering political progress. Defined within the framework of Shiite teachings, these interests create a common ground that can serve as a foundational ideological basis for political advancement and collective good in the Islamic Republic. In the second phase, three important dimensions of Shiism—its theoretical (Islamic political philosophy), attitudinal (political ethics), and behavioral (political jurisprudence) aspects—are explained and analyzed. These dimensions illustrate how Shiism, with its emphasis on ethical and legal principles, is equipped to provide a suitable framework for political progress. Islamic political philosophy offers theoretical perspectives on the structure and function of political power, while political ethics and political jurisprudence regulate political relations and behavior within society. In the third phase, the article explores how the idea of political progress can be translated into collective good, detailing the roles of three key societal elements: the leader, the government, and the people. The leader serves as the interpreter and illuminator of the principles of Shiism, the government as the provider of conducive conditions for implementation, and the people as learners and adherents of the school. This interaction between the leader, government, and people enables the idea of political progress to be realized in a collective and effective manner, fostering comprehensive progress across society. In conclusion, understanding the role of Shiism in realizing the idea of political progress and advancing Iranian society holds significant importance. A harmonious interaction between various societal pillars and optimal utilization of the capacities within Shiism can lead to desirable and sustainable transformations within the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Keywords

References

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