The Values at Stake

Glossary definitions and references:

Theological and religious glossary list for “The Values at Stake”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.

1) Revolution:
The Revolution in Iran, which began in 1979, was a significant turning point that reshaped the political landscape and social values of the country. This historical event galvanized a diverse coalition of actors united under a shared aim of overthrowing the Shah, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Islamic Republic. The Revolution's ideals of freedom, equality, and justice became central themes resonating across generations, although the interpretation and adherence to these values have since evolved, creating tensions and gaps in communication between parents and their children.

2) Child (Children):
In the context of post-revolutionary Iran, children emerge as pivotal figures in the ideological transmission of values from one generation to the next. The experiences and perspectives of children, particularly those who grew up during the turbulent years that followed the Revolution, reveal the profound impact of their parents' beliefs and the societal changes instigated by the revolutionary ideals. These children often grappled with the dichotomy between the hopes and dreams inherited from their parents and the stark reality they faced, which affected their sense of identity and connection to the past.

3) Transmission:
Transmission refers to the process by which values, beliefs, and cultural norms are handed down from one generation to another. In Iranian society since the 1979 Revolution, this transmission has encountered severe crises, characterized by an intergenerational gap in communication. The ideological convictions that once guided the actors of the Revolution have faltered, impacting how families communicate these values to their children. The efficacy of this transmission influences the ongoing dialogue about identity, belief, and the relation to Iran's revolutionary past and present.

4) Freedom:
Freedom was one of the principal aspirations of the 1979 Revolution, symbolizing the people's desire to escape authoritarianism under the Shah. The revolutionaries sought to create a society in which individuals could express themselves without fear, yet the aftermath saw the emergence of a regime that imposed restrictions and repressive measures. This paradox of freedom reflects the ongoing struggle among Iranians to balance their quest for personal liberties against the harsh realities imposed by the Islamic Republic, impacting the sentiments of successive generations.

5) Sah:
The Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, was the monarch of Iran whose regime was marked by authoritarianism and Westernization policies that alienated many segments of the population. His ousting during the 1979 Revolution led to significant ideological shifts and the subsequent establishment of the Islamic Republic. The Shah's legacy is a point of tension in contemporary Iranian politics and serves as a reminder of the contradictions faced by those who participated in the Revolution, as they navigate their relationship to an era that promised change yet resulted in its own form of repression.

6) Book:
The book mentioned as an editorial phenomenon captures the nostalgic essence of childhood memories from the revolutionary period, reflecting the significance of individual and collective experiences during a crucial historical juncture in Iran. It serves to bridge the gap between the experiences of different generations, encapsulating emotions, ideals, and values that were central to the lives of those who witnessed the Revolution and subsequent societal changes. The themes of the book evoke discussions about memory, identity, and the passage of time in a society marked by ideological shifts.

7) Memory:
Memory plays a crucial role in how generations perceive and interpret the events surrounding the Revolution and the subsequent transformations in Iranian society. Collective memories shaped by both joy and trauma help form a shared identity, influencing the ideologies passed down within families. For the second generation, memories of parents’ experiences during the Revolution can create a longing for an idealized past, while also igniting feelings of anger and betrayal regarding the present state of affairs. Memory becomes a shared space for reflection and discussion on what the Revolution meant versus the realities that have unfolded since.

8) Repression:
Repression in post-revolutionary Iran refers to the systematic suppression of dissent and the imposition of draconian laws that restrict personal freedoms. Emerging shortly after the revolutionary fervor subsided, this repression manifested in the form of political purges, moral policing, and severe consequences for those who challenged the regime. The recollections of individuals reveal the pervasive atmosphere of fear and control during these years, reinforcing the ideological divide between the revolutionary ideals and the lived experiences of the populace, especially among the younger generation.

9) Power:
Power in the context of the Islamic Republic post-Revolution evolved into a mechanism of control that not only dictated political life but also penetrated personal and social dimensions. The power dynamics established during the Revolution gave way to a theocratic governance model that emphasized the authority of religion intertwined with politics. For many citizens, especially the children of revolutionaries, understanding power dynamics has become pivotal as they navigate their relationships with their parents and their own beliefs while questioning the legitimacy of both past and current authorities.

10) Fear:
Fear plays a significant role in the interactions between generations in Iranian society post-Revolution, influencing parental communication and child development. The fear of repression, war, and societal judgment created an atmosphere in which open discussion became perilous, leading to a breakdown in the transmission of values and beliefs. Many parents, shaped by their own traumatic experiences, often communicated their fears to their children, establishing an environment that is conscious of danger, resulting in children growing up with complex relationships to the history and ideals of their parents' past.

11) Hope:
Hope was a driving force for many Iranians during the Revolution, symbolizing the aspiration for change, justice, and progress against oppression. However, the realities that unfolded after the Revolution presented a stark contrast to these founding ideals. Hope continues to play a critical role in shaping the identity and actions of the current generation, helping them navigate the complexities of their historical context while yearning for a future that aligns with the principles of freedom and social justice they believe derived from the Revolution.

12) Religion:
Religion, particularly in the form of Shia Islam, played a central role in the foundation of the Islamic Republic following the 1979 Revolution. It provided a unifying ideology that supported the regime's narrative and justification for authority. The evolution of religious interpretations signifies the complexities of identity and belief systems that children of the revolutionaries wrestle with today, often leading to conflicts between inherited values and contemporary secular aspirations.

13) Family:
Family serves as a critical social institution in conveying values, beliefs, and memories regarding the Revolution and the socio-political context. In post-revolutionary Iran, the family dynamic often reflects the broader ideological crises impacting each generation. The struggles within families regarding communication, expectations, and experiences are shaped by the historical trauma of the Revolution and the subsequent repression. Understanding family relationships is key to analyzing how ideology shapes individual identity and collective memory across generations.

14) Anti (Amti):
Anti refers to the outright opposition to Western imperialism, capitalism, and various ideologies that were prevalent during and after the Revolution. This anti-imperialist sentiment was fueled by the ideals of the Revolution, creating a narrative that framed certain beliefs and practices as necessary to counteract external and internal threats. Younger generations often struggle with these anti-values, trying to reconcile them with a world characterized by globalization and modernity, leading to a complex dialogue on identity and belief.

15) Feeling:
Feelings are fundamental to understanding the experiences of both generations in the context of the Iranian Revolution. The emotional resonances of hope, loss, anger, and nostalgia play a pivotal role in how individuals process their memories and communicate these experiences. The complex interplay of feeling within families can contribute positively or negatively to their relationships, influencing how they view the past and engage with their shared identity in light of present challenges.

16) Passion:
Passion was a hallmark of the revolutionary spirit that animated many Iranians during the 1979 uprising, symbolizing their deep commitment to change and the ideals formed during that period. However, the disillusionment that followed has led many individuals, especially among younger generations, to reflect on the concept of passion with hesitance. Understanding how passion manifests today in political and personal engagements provides insights into the ongoing struggle for identity and the desire for meaningful social change.

17) Death:
Death, particularly during the Iran-Iraq War, became a prevalent theme resonating through the memories of individuals in both generations. As a consequence of the conflict and governmental repression, the idea of martyrdom has been romanticized in Iranian culture, representing heroic sacrifice for the revolutionary ideals. This commodification of death has various implications for how families communicate about loss and valor, impacting perceptions of identity and belonging among children of revolutionaries.

18) Communication (Communicating, Communicate, Communicated):
Communicate refers to the essential act of exchanging ideas, feelings, and values within familial and social structures. In the context of Iranian society post-Revolution, communication often encounters obstacles stemming from generational differences, ideological divides, and trauma. The act of communication becomes a space for negotiation, healing, and greater understanding as family members share their histories and beliefs.

19) Doctrine:
Doctrine refers to the ideological tenets derived from Islamic principles that informed the governance of the Islamic Republic. These doctrines shaped the socio-political landscape after the 1979 Revolution and continue to influence the beliefs and practices of individuals in contemporary Iranian society. The relevance of doctrine reflects the complex relationship between faith and politics, especially as younger generations seek to redefine their identity apart from the rigid frameworks established by their parents.

20) Extreme:
Extreme refers to the often radical ideological shifts that took place during and after the 1979 Revolution. The contrast between the initial revolutionary fervor and the subsequent strict adherence to religious laws showcases how extremism can shape societal attitudes and experiences. Understanding the impact of extreme beliefs on individuals and families enables a deeper analysis of how these ideologies contribute to the intergenerational gaps seen today in Iranian society.

21) Prison:
Prison symbolizes repression as many dissenters faced imprisonment during the regime's consolidation of power following the Revolution. The presence of political prisoners has profound implications for both generations' understanding of justice, freedom, and the cost of ideological commitment. Memories of imprisonment contribute to the narrative of sacrifice and suffering that shapes the experiences of individuals whose lives were upended by state violence.

22) Face (Facing, Faced):
Face can represent both the physical and societal masks individuals wear in navigating their identities in a post-revolutionary context. The concept of face is tied to societal expectations of behavior and beliefs, particularly relating to the inherited ideals from the Revolution versus contemporary realities. Understanding the dichotomy of face aids in exploring how individuals balance personal convictions with societal pressures to conform to the state's ideologies.

23) Education:
Education plays a crucial role in the ideological formation of youth in Iran, especially following the Revolution when the regime sought to instill Islamic values in schools. The transformation in educational content mirrors societal shifts, as children often find themselves at odds with the teachings they receive versus the experiences and values communicated by their families. Educational experiences thus become a battleground for identity formation, leading to diverse understandings of history and belief.

24) Identity:
Identity in Iran has been significantly shaped by the experiences surrounding the 1979 Revolution and its aftermath. The changing political landscape and the ideological crises have resulted in complex identities that younger generations navigate while reconciling their inherited values with contemporary life. Discussions about identity often reveal the broader struggle for individuals to define themselves within the historical narratives imposed by their parents versus their own desires for personal autonomy.

25) Violent:
Violent refers to the harsh realities faced during the Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War, characterized by societal upheaval and political purges. The legacy of violence is deeply embedded in the collective memory and shapes how both generations perceive the past. The understanding of violent histories informs intergenerational conversations about courage, sacrifice, and the pursuit of justice, which are integral to the formation of beliefs.

26) Doubt:
Doubt became an intrinsic theme for many of the revolutionaries as the ideology of the Islamic Republic developed, leading to a crisis of faith in the principles that once inspired them. This doubt has ramifications for the younger generation, who may question the narratives provided by their parents, seeking authenticity in the midst of a complex political landscape. Exploring doubt allows insights into the ongoing negotiations of identity and belief across generations.

27) House:
House symbolizes not just the physical home but also the emotional and ideological spaces where families engage in discussions about their histories. The interactions within the house often echo the broader societal challenges preserving or contesting the revolutionary ideals. Understanding the dynamics of conversation that occur at home allows for a nuanced exploration of memory, identity, and belonging for individuals navigating intergenerational divides.

28) Mind:
Mind represents the complex thoughts and internal struggles of individuals as they contend with their history and the aspirations created during the Revolution. The psychological consequences of both revolutionary fervor and subsequent repression echo into the collective consciousness, influencing how narratives are constructed and recalled across generations. The mind becomes a battleground for beliefs, fears, and hopes as individuals seek to understand their place within the societal landscape.

29) Discussion:
Discussion serves as a medium for exploring the shared and differing experiences between generations in Iran. As families navigate the fallout from the Revolution and its consequences, discussions reveal the complexities of recalling memory, understanding ideology, and sharing feelings and aspirations. Engaging in meaningful discussions often paves the way for healing and reconciliation between parents and children, encouraging a deeper exploration of collective identity.

30) Experience:
Experience encompasses the diverse realities faced by individuals during pivotal moments such as the Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War. These lived experiences influence both personal identities and collective memories, with earlier generations often imparting their struggles onto their children. Understanding experience allows for deeper analysis into how ideological shifts resonate within individuals' lives, guiding their beliefs and perspectives.

31) Politics:
Politics, as shaped by the 1979 Revolution, has significant implications for how society functions in Iran. The transition from monarchy to theocratic rule altered the landscape of political dialogue, producing both fervent supporters and vehement critics of the regime. The intersection of personal convictions and political frameworks informs how younger generations engage with their historical context, potentially influencing their participation in modern political discourse.

32) Illusion:
Illusion denotes the sense of betrayal many feel when reflecting on the utopian ideals that propelled the Revolution. As the reality diverged from the envisioned hopes of change and freedom, individuals grapple with the impact of these illusions on their beliefs. This examination of illusion plays an integral role in discourse surrounding disappointment, disenchantment, and the enduring search for authenticity and meaning in the aftermath of the Revolution.

33) Minister:
Minister, reflecting the political hierarchy established post-Revolution, embodies the complexities of governance and the reality of power dynamics within the Islamic Republic. The role of ministers in shaping policies that both embody revolutionary ideals and facilitate social control speaks to the ongoing negotiations of authority, trust, and belief among the populace, particularly as younger generations react to the legacy of those who dictated their societal path.

34) Victory:
Victory serves as a compelling theme in recounting the successful overthrow of the Shah during the Revolution. It implicitly symbolizes the transformative power that collective action can exert on societal structures. However, the subsequent disillusionment with the outcomes diverging from that victory reveals critical reflections on the nature of triumph and the unwelcome realities that emerged in its wake.

35) Network:
Network refers to the social connections fostered among individuals as they navigate the ideological landscape in post-revolutionary Iran. The evolving nature of networks facilitates discussions around revolutionary values and collective memories, helping individuals form shared meanings as they attempt to reconcile their pasts with present realities.

36) Desire:
Desire reflects the aspirations that propelled the revolutionary movement, rooted in an urgent need for social, political, and economic reform. However, as the revolutionary ideals transformed into a repressive regime, desires often collided with the stark realities faced by individuals. Understanding desire helps illuminate the ongoing quest for identity, justice, and freedom within Iranian society.

37) Colour (Color):
Color symbolizes not only the vibrancy of life and expression before and during the Revolution but also the stark grayness associated with repression that followed. The juxtaposition of color in cultural expression emphasizes the emotional spectrum experienced by individuals as they navigate the historic context, capturing the essence of youth, hope, and dissatisfaction.

38) Blood:
Blood signifies the sacrifices made during the Revolution and the subsequent Iran-Iraq War, symbolizing both martyrdom and the pain inflicted on society. These imagery-laden expressions impact collective memory and identity as families share stories that intertwine the concepts of sacrifice, loss, and resilience designed to honor the past while grappling with the consequences in the present.

39) Human:
Human emphasizes the fundamental conditions facing individuals in Iranian society post-Revolution. The transition from monarchy to theocratic state was marked by a struggle for authentic human rights, dignity, and freedom, creating a steep divide between the revolutionary rhetoric and lived experience. Exploring human concerns echoes through intergenerational reflections and discussions about the true meaning of justice and identity.

40) Pari:
[see source text or glossary: #Pari#]

41) Pain:
Pain encapsulates the emotional and physical suffering experienced by numerous individuals in the aftermath of the Revolution and during the war. This pain is both personal and collective, deeply informing family narratives as they traverse the complexities of memory, loss, and incomprehensible realities that shaped their historical experiences.

42) Game:
Game reflects the playful yet poignant interactions children engage in as they navigate the narratives handed down by their parents regarding the revolution and societal changes. Children often reinterpret the struggles within the confines of their imagination, using games as a means to process their understanding of complex themes like violence, rebellion, and familial loyalty.

43) Lead:
Lead corresponds to the desire for leadership and direction among individuals seeking social change inspired by the Revolution. The interpretation of leadership takes on various forms as each generation grapples with the divergences that arise in their understanding of revolutionary ideals and their capacity for action in pursuit of change.

44) Consciousness:
Consciousness denotes the awareness individuals cultivate regarding their circumstances based on their generational experiences. In post-revolutionary Iran, however, the evolution of consciousness often reflects the disparities between the hopes of the revolutionaries and the reality faced by future generations. Understanding consciousness allows for deeper analysis into the tensions that define intergenerational dialogues and feelings of identity.

45) Multiplicity:
Multiplicity represents the variety of experiences and interpretations that arise within the context of Iranian ideologies, especially in relation to the Revolution. The rich multiplicity of perspectives informs the ongoing dialogue as individuals negotiate their beliefs, reinforcing the need for inclusivity, understanding, and acceptance within families and society.

46) Renunciation:
Renunciation signifies the rejection of values or beliefs that no longer resonate with individuals, particularly as they navigate their relationship to their parents' revolutionary ideals. The act of renouncing certain ideologies manifests a desire to pave a new path while grappling with the lineage of actions and thoughts passed down. It highlights an essential tension between the inherited past and the aspirations for an authentic present.

47) Suppression:
Suppression refers to the tight control exerted by the Islamic regime in post-revolutionary Iran, profoundly affecting individuals' ability to express themselves. This suppression creates a context for the intergenerational gap observed today, wherein families grapple with conflicting ideologies and the burden of unspoken histories. The implications of suppression extend to the psychological environment in which children are raised, leading to a climate characterized by fear and disengagement.

48) Environment:
Environment represents the socio-political context individuals inhabit as they interact with the legacies left by the Revolution. The environment creates an atmospheric pressure affecting how families communicate, reflect, and negotiate their identities while navigating their experiences with repression and hope for change.

49) Initiation:
Initiation recalls the beginning stages of transformative experiences during revolutionary moments that usher in dramatic changes within society. This concept resonates with both personal and collective experiences as individuals relate their engagements and commitments to the revolutionary ideals, confronting the aftermath in a manner reflecting their personal journeys of engagement and disillusionment.

50) Perception:
Perception highlights how individuals shape their understanding of the past, especially concerning their experiences surrounding the Revolution. The way members of both generations perceive the same events often differs significantly, resulting in gaps that foster misunderstanding and tension. Analyzing perception opens avenues to more profound insights into collective memory and the quest for authentic narratives.

51) Detachment:
Detachment denotes the emotional distance that often exists between parents and children who experience the same historical events yet interpret them divergently. The phenomenon of detachment underscores the generational gap that forms as children wrestle with the narratives passed down by their parents while forming their own understandings of identity, ideology, and socio-political realities.

52) Excitement:
Excitement is the charged emotional response that characterized the early days of the Revolution, illustrating the joy, enthusiasm, and hope that drove the masses. This excitement fostered a shared sense of purpose that, over time, gave way to disillusionment and repression, shaping the identities of those who lived through this tumultuous period, and profoundly affecting their children.

53) Liberation:
Liberation initially projected the potential to escape from oppression and establish a new societal order following the Revolution. However, the fundamental contradiction between liberation ideals and the outcomes has led to critical reflections among subsequent generations regarding the nature of freedom and the costs associated with striving for such ideals in a repressive atmosphere.

54) Reflection:
Reflection signifies the contemplative process individuals engage in when analyzing their experiences related to the Revolution and its outcomes. Engaging in reflection enables members of different generations to confront the complexities of their inherited histories, emotions, and motivations, facilitating dialogues that can bridge the intergenerational gap.

55) Relaxed (Relaxation, Relaxing):
Relaxation denotes the easing of restrictions that occurred post-war, leading to an era of cultural flourishing. However, this relaxation also revealed the disillusionment felt by younger generations concerning the artificiality of freedoms granted, which contrasted sharply with the sacrifices made during the Revolution. This theme plays a role in how individuals engage with contemporary issues of identity and belonging.

56) Science (Scientific):
Scientific exploration and inquiry are often viewed with suspicion by religious authorities in the Iranian context, particularly following the Revolution. The tension between scientific and religious thought influences how younger generations of Iranians perceive education and their opportunities for intellectual and personal growth, often leading to diverging paths from those of their parents.

57) Uniform (Uniformity):
Uniformity characterizes the efforts imposed by the Islamic regime to standardize beliefs and behaviors among its citizens post-Revolution. This push toward homogeneity often results in conflict between generations as younger individuals grapple with conformity versus self-expression, challenging the rigid values established by their predecessors.

58) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the understanding individuals cultivate regarding their identity and history, especially considering the revolutionary narrative shaped by their parents. In the context of post-revolutionary Iran, knowledge is complex and often contested, with individuals called to critically engage with the distinctions between inherited belief systems and their evolving understandings.

59) Evolution:
Evolution refers to the gradual transformations that Iranian society has undergone in the aftermath of the Revolution. The ideological evolution seen in the progression of beliefs among different generations reflects the negotiation of ideals and the adaptation of values to more contemporary contexts, highlighting the dynamic nature of identity.

60) Enjoyment:
Enjoyment signifies the simple pleasures of life that were often curtailed during the period of repression following the Revolution. Younger generations grew up longing for the experiences of freedom and enjoyment that their parents had hoped for during the revolutionary years. This longing plays a significant role in framing contemporary discussions about identity, desires, and connections.

61) Sacrifice:
Sacrifice reflects the heavy toll paid by many during the Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War, illustrating the depths of commitment individuals were willing to exhibit. This theme of sacrifice resonates deeply within families, shaping the narratives of honor, bravery, and the moral complexion of subsequent generations navigating their identities.

62) Existence:
Existence centers on the fundamental question of being and identity that surfaces in post-revolutionary narratives. The relationship between existence and ideology becomes a crucial focus as individuals contemplate their roles within society, the challenges of aligning with revolutionary ideals, and the quest for genuine connections amidst ideological tensions.

63) Ignorance (Ignorant):
Ignorance references the lack of access to information and critical engagement with the ideologies propagated by the regime. This theme is particularly significant for the younger generation, who often criticize their parents’ lack of awareness or understanding regarding the complexities of the revolutionary context they lived in, leading to a quest for knowledge and personal agency.

64) Confusion (Confused):
[see source text or glossary: #Confused#]

65) Longevity:
Longevity can be associated with the enduring nature of the Islamic regime's power following the Revolution. The lasting impact of revolutionary ideologies on individuals' lives and the persistence of a singular narrative underscore the challenges faced by younger generations seeking to break free from inherited expectations and create their own identities.

66) Demigods:
Demigods represent the martyrs celebrated in Iranian culture, particularly as symbolic figures of sacrifice and valor during the Revolution and war. These demigods embody collective memory and ideals, impacting how succeeding generations engage with their legacies while grappling with the complexities of their own motivations and beliefs.

67) Monarchy:
Monarchy signifies the pre-revolutionary period of Iranian history, which many view as a source of oppression and authoritarianism. The fall of the monarchy marked a historical shift and serves as a contrasting backdrop against which the ideals of the Revolution are measured, particularly in discussions about freedom, justice, and societal values among subsequent generations.

68) Richness:
Richness refers to the vibrant diversity of experiences, beliefs, and values that characterize both the history of the Revolution and the complexity of contemporary Iranian identity. Understanding this richness is essential for navigating intergenerational dialogues while recognizing the differences and commonalities that shape the human experience in post-revolutionary society.

69) Exercise:
[see source text or glossary: #Exercise#]

70) Shoulder:
Shoulder symbolizes the heavy burden carried by individuals who bear witness to both revolutionary dreams and subsequent disillusionment in Iranian society. The metaphorical weight represents not only personal sacrifices but also the collective responsibility to confront and reconcile historical narratives that impact familial relationships and societal identity.

71) External:
External refers to the pressures and influences from outside Iran that shape public perceptions of the nation and its ideologies. The external dimensions often complicate the interactions between generations, as young Iranians critique the relationship between their inherited values and the realities of globalization and modernity.

72) Tangible:
Tangible symbolizes the reality of lived experiences and their ability to inform individuals' perceptions of the past versus the ideals espoused during the Revolution. Understanding what is tangible allows for critical engagement with memories and the construction of meaning in the face of ideological shifts and personal experiences.

73) Perfume:
Perfume captures the essence of sensory experiences that evoke memories and sentiments tied to the ideals of the past. Sensory recollections can deeply influence emotions and identity as families navigate conversations about history, love, aspirations, and the nuances of life before and after the Revolution.

74) Gesture:
Gesture conveys the subtle, often nonverbal expressions of communication and connection between generations. These gestures, laden with meaning and emotion, can bridge ideological divides by signifying compassion, understanding, and a desire to engage with heritage while acknowledging the complexities of the present.

75) Emotion:
Emotion encompasses the multifaceted feelings that shape individuals’ responses to their experiences surrounding the Revolution. Emotional connections can create a powerful impetus for understanding both personal and collective narratives, serving as a backdrop for discussions about hope, grief, aspiration, and identity.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 149]