Freemasonry and its Role in Disseminating Western thought in Iran During Two Centuries, Nineteenth and Twentieth

Abstract

Freemasonry played a significant role in introducing Western ideas, visions, and theses into Iranian society through various means and tools, most notably the establishment of missionary societies, study missions, and the creation of diverse schools. In addition, many Iranian intellectual figures received their education in Western countries and adopted their ideas and visions, attempting to implement them in various ways within Iranian society. Examples include Malkum Khan, Mirza Saleh Shirazi, Yusuf Khan, consultant of the sate (author of "Yek Kalameh"), Abu al-Hasan Ilchi, Mirza Fath Ali Akhundzadeh, Abd al-Rahim Talibov, and others who were educated by Westerners and were impressed by Western civilization and its glittering facade.

In general, this Western cultural invasion had a significant impact and change on the Iranian social scene, at all political, social, and cultural levels, which was reflected in the emergence of many associations, parties, and organizations that raised their voices calling for this thought.