Political Turmoil in Iran

Political Turmoil in Iran

Author: Providence College Political Science Department October 21, 2022 Duration: 43:55

In September, Iran's morality police arrested a 22-year-old Iranian woman, Masha Amini, for violating rules regarding proper wearing of the hijab, a hair covering required of all women in public. A few days later, her family was informed that Ms. Amini had died in police custody, supposedly from a heart attack, although her family claimed she had died from blows to her head. In the weeks since, protests have erupted across Iran protesting Ms. Amini's death but also challenging the legitimacy of the Iranian regime. The protests have involved thousands of women, including high school and university students, and have expanded to include oil industry workers, medical workers, and lawyers. The Iranian regime seems to be under pressure greater than it has experienced since it came to power in 1979

This episode features a conversation with Providence College political science department's Middle East expert, Professor Gizem Zencirci, to help us understand what is going on in Iran and its wider significance for the Middle East. 


It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant stream of headlines and social media takes. Beyond Your News Feed: Understanding Contemporary Politics offers a different way to engage with the world. Sponsored by the Providence College Political Science Department, this podcast moves past the day’s loudest arguments to examine the underlying forces shaping them. Host William Hudson, who chairs the department, is joined by fellow scholars to unpack current events with the depth and context often missing from rapid-fire coverage. Their conversations explore the historical roots of today’s policies, the institutional mechanics behind political decisions, and the real-world consequences for communities. You’ll hear clear, expert analysis that connects theory to the news unfolding now, making complex topics accessible without oversimplifying them. This isn’t about adding more noise to your feed; it’s about building a foundational understanding of how power, ideology, and governance interact in our time. Tune in for a thoughtful respite from the reactive news cycle and a chance to genuinely comprehend the stories that define our contemporary landscape. Each episode of this podcast aims to equip you with a more nuanced perspective, fostering informed dialogue beyond the usual soundbites.
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