Abstract
These days, as you walk down the street, you witness scenes that, had you spoken about them forty years ago, you would have been ridiculed. Today, if you spend a short time away from Iran’s major cities, traveling to rural areas or abroad, in returning you’ll feel as if you’ve been living in a cave and have now entered a modern society. Research shows that the COVID-19 pandemic, as a facilitator of internet use and social media, has played a significant role in deepening the generation gap. This study examines the impact of technology and cyberspace (dual worlds and spaces) on the generation gap in Iranian society, particularly in Tehran. The research method is mixed, with data collected through documentary research, field studies, and interviews with cultural experts, university professors, and political activists. Max QDA software was used for analysis. The data suggest that the generation gap has become much more noticeable compared to previous decades. A review of past cultural and social policies reveals that the rapid growth of science and technology has outpaced policymakers’ objectives. Meanwhile, society, especially the youth and children, are rapidly moving toward globalization, leading to the creation of a deep generation gap.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Economic, Social, and Cultural Context
KEYWORDS
Globalization Culture Generational Gap Dual Worlds Dual Spaces
