Numerous studies have been conducted on movements and socio-political unrest, examining them from multiple perspectives. In Iran, many studies have focused on social transformations, often identifying identity as one of the causes of such changes. The central question of this article is the relationship between identity pluralism and political and social tensions in Iran, with a focus on the period after the reform era. The hypothesis suggests that identity in Iran today is not monolithic, given that it has manifested at subnational, national, and transnational levels, and that identity has become fragmented, globalized, and virtualized. As a result, during social tensions, each dimension of identity can align with or be influenced by competing ideologies or discourses. The findings of this study reveal that in various instances of social unrest, one or more aspects of existing identities become activated, playing a pivotal role in driving tensions. The study adopts a discourse analysis approach, with data collection conducted through library research.
Introduction
One of the most significant elements that distinguishes humans from other beings is the issue of identity. Sociologists consider identity to be a defining characteristic for understanding individuals. One of the critical discussions surrounding identity is its relationship with social movements. Social unrest, which often arises from economic and political tensions, can be analyzed through the lens of social identities, especially the multiplicity of these identities. Investigating the plurality of identities within social movements can lead to a better understanding of such movements. Therefore, this study focuses on the central question of how the pluralism of social identities has influenced tensions and social unrest in Iran after the reform era.
Methodology
Although every society may appear to form a single unified entity, it is made up of individual members, each with their distinct identity. Identity is essential for individuals living within a society, and it can be considered one of the most fundamental human needs in the social dimension. Typically, societies consist of multiple identities that coexist and together form a higher-level identity, which is the national identity. Identities can be influenced by various sources, including political (political-ideological orientations, parties, interest groups, unions, civil institutions, etc.), religious (religious or mystical groups), gender, linguistic (subnational and local languages and dialects), or ethnic (ethnic or racial minorities). These elements collectively form an individual's primary identity. In contemporary Iran, citizens draw their identity from both synchronic (contemporaneous) and diachronic (historical) sources. Language, religion, mythology, and historical consciousness are diachronic identity sources, while modern and globalized values and norms constitute synchronic identity sources. Together, these elements create the plural identity of contemporary Iranian citizens.
Findings
Based on the definitions of identity and the analytical levels of subnational, national, and transnational, the impact of identity on social unrest in Iran can be analyzed on three levels: 1) ethnic identity and political and social unrest; 2) national identity and political tensions; 3) transnational identity and socio-political unrest. At each of these levels, one or more identity sources have contributed to the stimulation of social movements.
Conclusion
Regarding the tensions and unrest in Iran after the reform era, one of the less analyzed factors is the relationship between identity and social movements. This research examines the connection between identity and socio-political tensions on three levels: subnational (ethnic), national, and transnational (global). Several examples of tensions and unrest occurring within Iran’s borders were analyzed. The findings indicate that some of the tensions and unrest during this period had identity-related origins, which must be considered in any analysis and interpretation. Today, identity is one of the most significant drivers of new social movements.