This study is an attempt to treat in a concise and objective manner the dominant social, political, economic, and military aspects of contemporary Iran. Created by a multidisciplinary team of social scientists under the guidance of the Federal Research Division of the Library of Congress. This publication seeks to provide a basic understanding of Iranian society, striving for a dynamic rather than a static portrayal. Represents the analysis of the authors and should not be construed as an expression of an official U.S. government position, policy, or decision.