Iran's conservative resurgence / an institutional analysis of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's victory in the 2005 presidential elections

Abstract

In this paper, I will assess these two alternative hypotheses to explain Ahmadinejad's victory . I will test the competing hypotheses using insights found in social science discussions about semi-authoritarian regimes. I will argue that while there is some evidence supporting the claim of a change in Iranian public opinion, the preponderance of evidence points to the institutional hypothesis as best accounting for Ahmadinejad's victory. I will demonstrate the strength of the institutional hypothesis by showing how the power structures of the Iranian government were utilized to obstruct the democratic will in the 2005 election. Finally, I will discuss the ramifications of this conclusion and suggest areas for further study. (from Introduction)