Cholera and medicalization: The two factors leading to a modern interventionist state in the In the Qajar era

From the Sassanid period to the mid-Qajar period, a form of state in Iran emerged that not only did not hold itself accountable towards the people, but also demanded the citizens to obey the state under any condition as this earthly state was connected to the heavenly kingdom. This article aims at investigating the moment of dissociation from this state form, a dividing moment prior to which the state was considered a pre-modern state, and after which emerged the modern state in Iran. Intervention in the life and death of nationals, either in public or private spheres, is a prominent component of this state. Findings of the article suggest that the beginning of the emergence of modern state dates back to the seizures carried out by the state in the mid-Qajar period, and during the period of fatal cholera’s prevalence. Establishment of Dar ul-Funun University and focus on modern medicine and surgery disciplines, foundation of the first modern hospital in this period, formation of the Pasteur Institute for vaccine production, emphasis on water hygiene as the major cause of cholera were among the non-mythical acts by which the state interfered with the life and death of its citizens. In general, this study concludes that medicalization of Iranian society, and consequently state interference with the dignity of life and health of citizens were paradigms that triggered the impetus for certain movements in the state, and provided the factors required for transition from pre-modern to modern condition.