Societies in Nostalgia of Communities: A Look at Neo-Spiritualism in Iran (Based on Two Case Studies of Philosophical and Psychological Communities)

During recent years there have been many gatherings and classes in Tehran and other cities where new methods of “living a better life” are being taught. In these gatherings, which are based on differing psychological and philosophical perspectives, people seek some kind of spiritual and meta-physical enlightenment and on ways to gain happiness, success, maturity, psychological transcendence and relaxation. This article reveals the findings of this qualitative study on two such classes. The type of organization and the relationship between members are studies here. According to the findings we may call these gatherings ‘societies’ or ‘communities in nostalgia’ which are closed, mysterious and lead by charismatic leaders. At the same time such gatherings are signs of dynamic social life hidden from wider social society.