The Iranian Rentier State: Rentierism, Political Stability and Economic Development in Iran

Since 1979, the Islamic Republic of Iran has managed to consolidate and centralize its power, cement its authority over the domestic populace, and exercise increasing influence in the Middle East and beyond; all this amidst an ever growing population and escalating economic problems. Yet, the government of Iran has been able to maintain internal political control while pursuing a more assertive foreign policy abroad. Economic sanctions, international isolation, and strict containment policies have apparently had little effect in weakening the state. So, what factors have contributed to the Iranian state's resilience to sustain itself through times of political and economic shock? This timely work examines the scale of political, economic and social impacts oil-led economic development has had in the Iranian rentier state. It provides a detailed theoretical framework for discussing the subject, comprehensive analysis of Iran's socio-economic and political developments, and key internal and exogenous factors that influence state stability/instability. This book will not only be of interest to Iran specialists, but also to scholars of political science, economics, and int. relations.