Obscurantism in Iran
Mahmood Elahi Iris Street, Ottawa, Canada
Iranian scholar Azar Nafisi has given us a close look at the Iranian society under the ruling Shiite Mullahs in her recent book. Prof. Nafisi was expelled from Tehran University for refusing to wear veil and now teaches at the John Hopkins University in Baltimore. After her expulsion, she organised a home study session for a group of her top girl students in her own house where they could discuss politics, religion and literature without the intimidation of the Mullahs. In her book, she recounts one such session with her students about why Iranian men insist that women should wear veil. Here is an excerpt of their discussions:"Can you imagine the kind of man who'd get sexually provoked just looking at a strand of my hair?" said Nassrin. "Women who cover themselves are aiding and abetting the regime," said Azin with a defiant flourish. That gives a picture of how Iranian society today.
|
|
