Evaluation of a Theory: Comprador bourgeoisie in contemporary Iran (with emphasis on Rashidian Family)

Authors

1 Associate Professor at the Department of The History and Civilization of Islamic Nation, Payame Noor University (PNU), Tehran, Iran

2 PhD of Department of History, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

3 Assistant Professor at the Department of Political Science, Institute of Humanities,Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Social stratification constitutes one of the fundamental subjects in the field of historical sociology. The structure of stratification and the composition of social classes in any society not only shape the analysis of its social history but also exert a significant influence on its political, cultural, and economic trajectories.This article seeks to examine and evaluate one of the principal social strata in the history of modern Iran—the comprador bourgeoisie, or the dependent capitalist class—by focusing on the activities of one of the most influential families of the Pahlavi era, namely the Rashidian family, which was associated with this social group. The study aims to address the central question: To what extent can the Rashidians be regarded as a representative example of the influential comprador bourgeoisie, or dependent capitalist class, in contemporary Iran? Methodologically, the research employs a historical approach grounded in library-based and documentary sources, including both published and unpublished historical materials. Through an analytical framework, it explores the defining characteristics of the comprador bourgeoisie and compares them with the social, political, and economic attributes of the Rashidian family in order to provide a precise and evidence-based answer to the research question. The findings suggest that the Rashidian family exemplified the core features of the comprador bourgeoisie or dependent capitalist class in Iran. Politically and culturally, they maintained close collaboration and alignment with foreign powers, opposed nationalist movements, and adopted a conservative and reactionary stance toward domestic politics. They also exhibited signs of cultural dependency, nouveau-riche behavior, lumpen tendencies, and a markedly self-serving mindset. Economically, the Rashidians were characterized by rent-seeking, monopolistic practices, and a prominent role in brokerage, mediation, and profiteering activities—all of which reflect the essential nature of the comprador bourgeoisie in twentieth-century Iran.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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  • Receive Date: 22 April 2025
  • Revise Date: 16 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 26 July 2025

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