A application of Davies theory to the Islamic Revolution in Iran

The aim of this paper is to explain the Islamic Revolution of Iran based on Davis theory and suggest both advantages and limitations of this theory. More than three decades has passed since the triumph of the Islamic Revolution and the roots and causes of this revolution are still not adequately explored. Among the theories formulated to explain how revolutions happen, that of James Davies J curve has gained global popularity and due to high citation its importance is considerable. Despite this merit, applicability of this theory to the Islamic Revolution, is a matter of dispute among revolution researchers. The authors of the present paper have attempted to review the analyses provided by both advocates and opponents of the applicability of James Davis theory to the Islamic Revolution and adopted a reading provided by Ted Robert Gurr. Economic statistics published by the Plan and Budget Organization, economic reports published by Central Bank of Iran, and some other documents illustrate the capability of the mentioned theory to explain the Islamic Revolution considerably. However, the authors suggest that, Davies theory, due to its limitations, make clear some causes of Islamic Revolution, and to complete the explanation we need supplementary approaches, specially a cultural approach.