Modern sciences in religious Iran: An assessment of the educated Iranians’ attitude toward biological evolution

It is often assumed that there a confrontation between science and Islam, especially in religious communities. Biological evolution one of the constant sources contention due to its metaphysical implications. Although are some empirical data showing low acceptance understanding basic principles Sunni-majority countries, has been categorical lack about Iran as most influential Shiite-majority state. Therefore, order reach better culture world-view Iranians, we implemented two established questionnaires phone interviews assess educated Iranians’ attitude toward evolution. We an important conclusion, which supported by extensive quantitative obtained from separate questionnaires, Iranians accept both underlying well controversial topics such human striking rate. Additionally, key concepts were greatly understood large fraction our participants. Finally, research exhibited did not consider their belief system rival systems, regardless identifying themselves or non-religious individuals. To investigate reason for this cultural phenomenon unique among major Islamic suggest it three reasons. Central national education implementing evolutionary at high school university levels, explosive accessibility academic atmosphere public, more science-friendly interpretation Islam thought be responsible factors level understanding. This study crucial implications revisiting nature Science-Islam interaction various Muslim communities, Shiite included.