An Intellectual Manifesto for Governance, Justice, and Democracy
In Do Se Kalameh (دو، سه کلمه), Aram Hessami delivers a thought-provoking manifesto on Iran’s political and social evolution, questioning the very foundation of governance, democracy, and justice in modern society. While formally published as a book, this work functions as a powerful call to action, blending intellectual critique with a roadmap for democratic transformation. Through a profoundly philosophical and critical lens, Hessami dissects the interplay between authoritarianism, democracy, and citizen engagement, making his work a crucial read for those interested in Iran’s future and the broader discourse on democratic transitions.
A Critique of Power and Governance
At its core, Hessami’s book-manifesto is an unflinching critique of theocratic and autocratic governance. The author explores the limitations of absolute rule and the failures of institutionalized oppression, making a compelling case for the necessity of democratic transformation. He argues that true democracy is more than a procedural system; it is a continuous struggle against forces that seek to monopolize power.
Hessami engages in a deep philosophical inquiry into the existence of the state and the role of citizenship in shaping governance. He points out that authoritarian regimes often strip democracy of its substance, reducing it to a hollow performance while maintaining structures that sustain oppression. He highlights the need for civic institutions that genuinely reflect the will of the people rather than serving as extensions of authoritarian control.
The Complexities of Democracy and Justice
Democracy, as Hessami presents it, is neither linear nor guaranteed. He delves into the challenges that democratic movements face, from the danger of majoritarian rule that suppresses minority rights to the persistent tension between tradition and progress. A central theme in the book is the struggle for justice, which Hessami argues must be built on equality, fairness, and institutional accountability. He critiques systems that have historically justified inequality under the guise of religion or nationalism, urging a shift toward governance that prioritizes human rights over ideological dogma.
The Cultural Battle Between Modernity and Tradition
One of the book’s most engaging discussions revolves around the clash between modernity and tradition. Hessami examines how notions of individual freedom, citizenship, and identity have evolved, particularly in Iran. He notes how younger generations are actively redefining these concepts, challenging outdated societal norms, and advocating for new interpretations of justice, equality, and governance.
This shift, he argues, is not merely political but deeply cultural. He questions whether democracy can thrive in societies that remain anchored to rigid traditions, advocating for a more universal approach to human rights that transcends cultural relativism. His analysis raises profound questions about the role of religion, secularism, and governance in shaping societies in transition.
Citizen Engagement and Revolutionary Change
Perhaps the most urgent message in Do Se Kalameh is the power of collective action. Hessami sees civic engagement as the key to political transformation, emphasizing that the destiny of a nation is ultimately determined by its people. He offers a historical and contemporary analysis of social movements, discussing the crucial role of leadership, strategy, and organization in bringing about meaningful change.
The book is not just an academic exercise but a call to action. It poses critical questions: What strategies must be employed to dismantle authoritarian structures? How can citizens reclaim their agency in a system designed to suppress them? What lessons can be drawn from global democratic movements to inform Iran’s future?
A Blueprint for Iran’s Future?
Hessami’s Do Se Kalameh is more than a book—it is a manifesto for democratic renewal. While it provides a scathing critique of the present, it also lays the groundwork for a future built on justice, equality, and participatory governance. By examining historical patterns and contemporary movements, Hessami presents a vision for a new Iran—one that is free from tyranny and anchored in the principles of democracy.
This book-manifesto is an essential read for those seeking an intellectual deep dive into Iran’s sociopolitical landscape. Do Se Kalameh challenges, provokes, and inspires, significantly contributing to the ongoing conversation about Iran’s path forward.
A Call for Further Discussion
This review should not only serve as an introduction to Hessami’s work but also spark deeper conversations about the evolving relationship between the individual, society, and governance. The book’s central ideas—justice, equality, and freedom—have continuously evolved throughout history, shaped by cultural, political, and economic contexts. In light of the global democratic struggles and Iran’s ongoing transformation, these concepts must be reexamined and redefined. What does justice mean in a modern, interconnected world? How can equality be realized in societies that have long been structured around hierarchy and power imbalances? What is the true essence of freedom in a landscape where governance and individual agency are constantly at odds? By engaging with these questions, we can further the discourse that Do Se Kalameh has ignited, ensuring that these principles remain dynamic forces for societal change.
Aram Hessami is a Political Science and Philosophy professor at Montgomery College in Rockville, Maryland. His research and publications focus on democratic transition, Discourse Theory, and Social Change. He received his BA, MA, and Doctorate in Political Science and philosophy from George Washington University in 1993. Dr. Hessami’s specializations are Western Political Thought and Postmodern philosophy.
More by Aram Hessami:
- MESA 2024: Vexing Questions about the Interplay of Iran’s Regional and Domestic Politics
- MESA 2021: Iran’s New Century and the Formation of National Identity
- Iran’s New Century and the Formation of National Identity
- Iran’s National Identity: The Heaviest Load
- The Fickle History of the Women’s Movement in Iran
- Modernity in Iran – Iran’s Century-Old Civil War: Political Discourses in Dispute
Vafa Mostaghim is a journalism professional and media analyst with over two decades of experience in strategic communication, media studies, and discourse analysis. He holds a B.S. in Advertising and Marketing Communications and an M.A. in Strategic Communications, combining academic expertise with practical experience in persuasive communication and discourse analysis.
