Inquiry of Plebian Elements in Tobacco Movement

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran

2 Department of Sociology and Social Planning, Faculty of Economics, Management and Social Sciences, University of Shiraz, Shiraz, Iran

3 Department of Social Development Studies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

10.22059/jisr.2023.358260.1395

Abstract

This article aims at a different analysis of the tobacco movement. Assuming that this initial encounter between the Iranian people and the government, which was precipitated by the territorial expansion of global capitalism via concessions in a peripheral country, comprises characteristics that are unique to a subordinate experience. The theoretical perspectives of "Martin Breaugh" served as the inspiration for this article.
It has been enhanced by a system perspective that emphasizes the linguistic-historical critique of the object and operates under the assumption that it lacks identity. Utilized methods consist of secondary and document analysis. An endeavor has been undertaken to measure the presence and absence of components of the plebian principle in the actions and moments of the aforementioned movement through linguistic criticism, reexamining historical documents, and even analyzing analyses.
The main results of this research are: 1) Initiated by Shiite scholars and instigated by the discontent of merchants and businessmen, this movement rapidly evolved into a social movement that encompassed the urban impoverished, dashmashti, women, children, courtiers, and even the royal harem. 2) It should be noted that although street demonstrations and protests emerged as a result of the plebeian people's affection for squares (agoraphilia), the boycott proved to be the most effective and crucial method of challenging the king and foreigners. This article argues that the boycott represents the epitome of consumerism or the C-M moment. 3) The authors demonstrated that totalitarian regimes abstain from employing force not due to a lack of legitimacy, but rather when they lack the authority to "command"; 4) An unintended democratic desire emerged, which ultimately resulted in a yearning for recognition by "the people"; this desire ceased to progress until it reached its logical juncture, but served as the foundation for subsequent developments. This remains a present-day concern and has been the primary social demand of all contemporary social movements in Iran; 5) In contrast to an ahistorical and orientalist perspective, the tobacco movement serves as an expression of democratic opposition.

Keywords


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