Analysis of the concept of dissent in Kalileh and Demneh based on the perspectives of Michel Foucault, John Stuart Mill and Thomas

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Corresponding author, Postdoctoral Graduate. Department of Persian Language and Literature, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Department of Persian Language and Literature, Allameh Tabatabaei University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Purpose: The concept of dissent is one of the fundamental principles in social interactions that has been particularly considered in classical Iranian literature. »Kalileh and Demneh«as a literary work with deep cultural and philosophical roots provides a suitable opportunity to examine this concept. By depicting the complex relationships between characters and presenting instructive anecdotes, this work can help analyze dissent and its importance in human society.
The aim of this research is to analyze and examine dissent in »Kalileh and Demneh«in order to better understand how this concept is represented in the form of anecdotes and different characters, with a reflection on the perspectives of thinkers such as;»John Stuart Mill, Michel Foucault and Hobbes«.
Method and Research: This research, using an analytical-descriptive method, examined the texts in »Kalileh-and dmaneh«and, by analyzing the content of various anecdotes, extracted and evaluated the effect of dissent on the behavior of the characters and the outcomes of the stories.
Findings and Conclusions: The findings of the research indicate that »Kalileh -Dmaneh«effectively represents the concept of dissent in the form of its characters and anecdotes. By emphasizing the importance of respecting the opinions of others, the diversity of views, and the need for dialogue in creating social coexistence, this work teaches readers that dissent is not only a moral value, but also an essential need for the advancement of society. In general, the analysis of dissent in»Kalileh-and-Dmaneh«by reflecting on the views of the aforementioned thinkers shows the diversity and complexity of this concept. Dissent can be considered as a tool for resistance and criticism of power (Foucault), a threat to social order and stability (Hobbes), and a factor for progress and freedom of expression (Mill). This diversity of views helps us to better understand dissent in different social and political contexts and emphasizes the necessity of accepting diversity and positive interaction between individuals.

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References

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Journal of Prose Studies in Persian Literature
Volume 28, Issue 57
September 2025
Pages 25-44

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