Approaches in sociology and development

Abstract Abstract This study aims to provide a critical analysis of the content of Historical Barriers to the Growth of Capitalism in Iran by Ahmad Ashraf, examining in structural terms the historical causes underlying the underdevelopment of industrial capitalism in Iran. The research employs a directed qualitative content analysis approach, drawing on concepts derived from theories of historical institutionalism, dependent development, and the developmental state in order to code the text and extract its key themes. The findings indicate that the barriers to the growth of capitalism in Iran can be classified at two levels: internal barriers (including tribal structure, economic and political insecurity, and inhibiting social structures) and external barriers (such as colonialism, the penetration of the global economy, and inefficient economic investment). These two sets of factors have operated through a cycle of reproducing structural dependency, thereby preventing the emergence of productive classes and effective institutions. A comparative analysis with the experiences of Turkey and India shows that weakness in the will for institutional reform and the absence of a developmental state are among the major factors distinguishing Iran from these countries. In its final analysis, while the present study affirms the historical richness of Ashraf’s work, it also emphasizes its theoretical limitations and its neglect of the possibility of structural reform. By considering the historical continuity of developmental barriers in Iran, this study highlights the necessity of rethinking the country’s current political and economic institutions.

Abstract Abstract
Background and Objective: The culture of any nation contributes to its sustainability and well-being. Iran, with its rich culture and historical background, relies on its national and Iranian culture for national stability and strength. This research aims to interpret the impact of Iranian national culture on the security and well-being of Iranian society.
Method and Materials: The research adopts a theoretical perspective based on a hermeneutic approach and is aligned with previous research, observations, and life experiences. The research method is descriptive based on data collection.
Findings: The dominance of religion in all aspects of governance and the administration of the country, including political, economic, social, and cultural affairs, has led to the neglect of many aspects of Iranian culture. This study attempts to demonstrate that disregarding Iranian culture, rituals, and traditions can result in significant harm to the security and well-being of Iranian society. Safeguarding and promoting culture prevent such harm and contribute to its regeneration. National culture is influential in national cohesion and the preservation of Iran's territorial integrity.
Conclusion: Iranian culture is rooted in celebratory rituals, and the cheerful people of Iran may not have the capacity to endure excessive grief and mourning, leading to long-term adverse consequences. On the other hand, strengthening and paying attention to national and Iranian culture enhances Iran's credibility and desirable global image. Cultural commonalities and widespread traditions can promote security, peace, friendship, and social well-being in Iran.

Abstract Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the sociological impact of lifestyle on cultural and social development in the metropolitan city of Tehran.
Method: This research employed a descriptive survey design with a correlational approach. The study sample consisted of 384 residents of Tehran from the northern, southern, central, eastern, and western districts, selected through multi stage cluster random sampling. Data were collected using a researcher developed 39 item lifestyle questionnaire and a 44 item cultural and social development questionnaire. The validity and reliability of these instruments were assessed at 0.92 and 0.90, and 0.89 and 0.91, respectively. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS and LISREL.
Findings: The results show that lifestyle has a significant effect on cultural development in metropolitan Tehran. Additionally, lifestyle has a significant impact on social development in the city.
Conclusion: Lifestyles are integral components of everyday social life in the modern world and play a fundamental role in social interactions, and consequently, in cultural and social development.

Abstract Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors influencing the development of rural tourism in the Mahan District of Kerman County.
Method: This research is applied‑developmental in purpose and descriptive‑analytical in method. The statistical population consisted of all residents of six tourism‑receiving villages in the Mahan District (N = 7,656). Using stratified random sampling and Cochran’s formula, a sample of 366 participants was selected. Data were collected using a questionnaire measuring factors affecting rural tourism development. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were assessed at 0.93 and 0.90, respectively. To identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, both the External Factor Evaluation (EFE) and Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) matrices were used, and the SWOT matrix served to determine the factors influencing rural tourism development. Additionally, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed to prioritize the criteria and sub‑criteria.
Findings: The results derived from the SWOT matrix indicate a significant relationship among the factors influencing rural tourism development in the Mahan District of Kerman County.
Conclusion: Tourism is one of the most important activities of contemporary human society. While creating profound transformations in the physical landscape, it reshapes political, economic, and cultural conditions as well as human lifestyles.

Abstract Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the sociological dimensions of social, cultural, and economic factors influencing law‑evasion among motorcyclists in the city of Mashhad.
Method: This research employed a descriptive‑survey design with a correlational approach. The statistical population consisted of 384 motorcyclists who, according to the criteria and assessments of traffic‑police experts, had been identified as law‑evading riders. Participants were selected using multi‑stage cluster sampling based on Cochran’s formula. Data were collected through a researcher‑developed 23‑item questionnaire measuring social, cultural, and economic factors influencing law‑evasion, along with an 8‑item law‑evasion questionnaire. The validity and reliability of these instruments were assessed at 0.87 and 0.89, and 0.91 and 0.93, respectively. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS and LISREL.
Findings: The findings indicate:
1. A significant relationship exists between social factors and law‑evasion among motorcyclists in Mashhad.
2. A significant relationship exists between cultural factors and law‑evasion among motorcyclists in Mashhad.
3. A significant relationship exists between economic factors and law‑evasion among motorcyclists in Mashhad.
Conclusion: To effectively control traffic‑related violations, the most effective strategy is to strengthen informal social‑control mechanisms, particularly through enhancing components of social capital.

Abstract Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to conduct a sociological analysis of the relationship between social sustainable development and cultural policies, with emphasis on the mediating role of citizenship rights at the Islamic Azad University, Central Tehran Branch.
Method: This research employed a descriptive‑survey design with a correlational approach. The statistical population consisted of all 270 staff members of the Central Tehran Branch, of whom 159 were selected as the sample using simple random sampling and Cochran’s formula. Data were collected using three researcher‑developed instruments: the Social Sustainable Development Questionnaire, the Cultural Policies Questionnaire, and the Citizenship Rights Questionnaire, whose validity and reliability were confirmed at 0.93 and 0.90, 0.91 and 0.89, and 0.86 and 0.88, respectively. Data analysis was conducted using Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, and structural equation modeling via SPSS and AMOS 22.
Findings: The results indicate that there is a significant relationship between social sustainable development and cultural policies when considering the mediating role of citizenship rights at the Central Tehran Branch. A significant relationship also exists directly between social sustainable development and cultural policies.
Conclusion: Social sustainable development, when coupled with cultural policy‑making and strengthened citizenship rights, has substantial effects on modern societies, including improving quality of life, reducing inequalities, and enhancing public participation.