Theoretical Foundations
摘要
This chapter presents the theoretical foundations underpinning the study, drawing from sociology, political science, and philosophy. It critically reviews major theories of identity-including primordialism, instrumentalism, and constructivism-and relates them to the Iranian context. Through the works of Durkheim, Foucault, Laclau, and Mouffe, it explains how discourse shapes collective consciousness and how power structures sustain or suppress certain identity narratives. The section also explores theories of solidarity, cultural capital, and postcolonialism to highlight the interplay between ideology and social stratification. By integrating these approaches, the chapter builds a multidisciplinary framework for understanding identity fragmentation and discourse in modern Iran.