Ali Bazm-Amoon, a sociologist, psychoanalyst, and architect, examines the white whale of Iranians in his analysis, presenting it as a symbol of the obsession with achieving wealth quickly and effortlessly. Referring to Herman Melville's novel "Moby-Dick," Bazm-Amoon explores the social and psychological dimensions of this obsession in Iranian society.
Obsession and Economic Inequality
The dream of achieving wealth in Iranian society has become a pathological phenomenon. Sociological research shows that economic inequality in Iran has significantly increased in the past decade, deepening class divides. Official data indicates a rise in the Gini coefficient and the share of the top income decile. This situation means the accumulation of wealth in the hands of a minority that has primarily benefited from unproductive activities and rent-seeking.
Read more: The presence of Qom residents in the field has reached its two-hundredth night
In such conditions, social anomie (normlessness) emerges as a serious crisis. Research shows that the anomie score in Iran is high, and many people feel that they cannot achieve prosperity and success through honorable means. As a result, "fetishism of money" grows as one of the dimensions of anomie in society.
Social Deviations and the Link to Wealth Obsession
When the dream of wealth becomes an obsession and acceptable means to achieve it are not available, individuals turn to "unacceptable means." Robert Merton, a prominent sociologist, explains that when the pressure to achieve a goal (wealth) is high but legal opportunities are scarce, individuals resort to illegal means.
Multiple pieces of evidence in Iranian society show how this dream fuels deviations. Structural anomalies in the distribution of opportunities and the diminishing value of productive work are identified as key factors in this regard. Additionally, economic pressures and the feeling of closed legal pathways to success drive some individuals toward risky or illegal behaviors.
The deep divide between the lifestyles of some affluent classes and millions of citizens grappling with economic hardships reflects the pursuit of the white whale in today's Iran. Images and videos of the extravagant lifestyles of certain families on social media have become a symbol of obsession that drives society toward social deviations.
Combating Wealth Obsession
From a psychoanalytic perspective, the desire for the "unattainable thing" reflects a sense of lack and existential void. In a society where pathways to self-esteem are blocked, there is an unconscious tendency toward a lost object. The more we chase effortless wealth, the more we suffer from feelings of emptiness and corruption.
To combat this obsession and inequalities, attention must be paid to a return to authentic values, transparency and accountability, strengthening social cohesion, and education and cultural development. A society that can balance its ideals with the realities of the times will pave the way for elevation and progress.
Read more: Ali Abbasi: Disability is the absent presence in international relations · Mohammad Reza Pispar: The identity crisis of the Iranian youth in the digital age
