Examining the Concept of Development in the Thought of Ali Shariati

Document Type : Research Article / Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor of Sociology, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Department of Sociology Ayatollah Borujerdi University Borujerd, Iran

3 PhD student of Sociology, University of Tehran, Kish International Campus, Kish, Iran.

Abstract

This study analyzes the concept of development in the thought of Dr. Ali Shariati and examines the fundamental components of his development model. It addresses two main questions: first, whether development constitutes a central concern within Shariati’s intellectual system; and second, what the main components of his development model are? A qualitative and interpretive methodology is employed, using content analysis and comparative analysis. Shariati’s works were examined and key concepts extracted and analyzed in comparison with classical and contemporary theories of development sociology. Findings indicate that Shariati conceptualizes development as an endogenous, culturally grounded, and human-centered process. His model is structured around two main axes: cultural–spiritual development and economic–structural development. The cultural axis includes critical consciousness, critical dialogue, critical pedagogy, intellectual solidarity, and the rule of law. The economic–political axis involves political organization, material infrastructure, enlightened leadership, committed governance, and responsible intellectual elites. The analysis demonstrates that cultural factors occupy a more fundamental position in Shariati’s framework, while development emerges as a dialectical process between cultural consciousness and socio-political structures. This model provides a normative and analytical framework for sustainable and human-centered development.

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References

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Social Theories of Muslim Thinkers
Volume 16, Issue 1
March 2026
Pages 55-72

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History

  • Receive Date: 25 August 2025
  • Revise Date: 21 October 2025
  • Accept Date: 04 December 2025
  • Publish Date: 21 March 2026

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