Extended Abstract
Introduction: Coinciding with the Renaissance in Europe and the formation of the initial stages of industrial development, in Iran, the Safavid civilization rose to power after a long period of unrest in Iran. During this period, some industrial activities in Iran were operating at the same level as in Europe and in some cases even superior to it, and the basis for the development of industry in Iran were prepared. However, Iran was unable to experience industrial developments similar to those in Europe. This research aims to analyze the reasons behind this based on the theory of short-term society. According to this theory, the long-term accumulation of capital, property, and social institutions in Iran was hindered due to insecurity and political instability.
Method: This research was conducted using a historical method, considering the nature of the subject. Historical research, is based on documents and evidence. Accordingly, in this research, an attempt has been made to collect and analyze the data required to support the theory of short-term society by referring to original sources, especially the travelogues of European travelers.
Findings: According to the results, in the Safavid era, royal workshops played a significant role in the country's economic life. These workshops operated under the direct supervision of the court and included various industries, such as textiles, carpet weaving, weaponry, and pottery, which in some cases were even superior to European counterparts. The findings show that insecurity in government positions and the wealthy was the most important obstacle to the development of industry. In the Iranian monarchy, the Shah had divine and absolute power, and no one could limit him. This led to insecurity in ownership and wealth, because the Shah could confiscate the property and estates of individuals at will. This insecurity hindered capital accumulation. The Safavid kings prevented the circulation of capital by accumulating wealth in royal treasuries. This led to a shortage of financial capital and exacerbated the economic crisis. Foreign money changers and traders further deepened this crisis by taking capital out of the country.
Conclusion: Industrialization is the fundamental desire worldwide, but it requires historical context. Although, the great Safavid civilization rose to power in Iran at a critical point in history, which could have laid the foundations for the development of industry in Iran, this did not happen due to the characteristics of the short-term society. As a result, Iran was never able to expand industrial activities on par with European countries.