Cultural Influence in the Islamic Republic of Iran: Challenges and Confrontations in the Thought of the Supreme Leader (1989–2018) (مقاله علمی وزارت علوم)

چکیده

This article delves into the cultural invasion faced by Islamic society following the Islamic Revolution, focusing on how Western powers have strategically attempted to undermine indigenous cultures through materialism and cultural hegemony. The primary research question of this study is, what factors have contributed to the cultural penetration of Western values in Iran, and how can these influences be resisted in line with the perspectives of the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei? The hypothesis suggests that cultural infiltration is not merely a historical issue but a modern tactic used by Western forces to weaken Islamic ideals and revolutionary movements, especially in the post-revolutionary context. Through a content analysis of Ayatollah Khamenei's speeches and writings, the study identifies the key components of cultural resistance, such as the need for a solid intellectual foundation, an in-depth understanding of the enemy's tactics, and an active presence in the digital and cyberspace spheres. The research highlights that these elements are essential for developing an effective strategy against cultural domination. Moreover, the study reveals that public participation and solidarity, while important, are less critical in countering cultural infiltration than a stronger ideological framework and intellectual empowerment. This suggests that the focus should shift towards strengthening the cultural and intellectual defenses of society, with particular attention to the role of education, media, and critical thinking in resisting foreign cultural pressure. The study concludes that in order to safeguard cultural security in Iran, it is imperative to activate public diplomacy, promote cultural assimilation based on resistance, and establish an Iranian-Islamic progress plan that emphasizes self-reliance and the preservation of indigenous cultural values. These strategies are not only crucial for maintaining cultural sovereignty but also for reinforcing the broader ideological and political independence of Iran.