ABSTRACT
This book was developed from a series of lectures given at the annual Farabi Conference at Durham University in June 2009 in an effort to provide a unique insight into Iran and its relationship with the international system. The chapters within this book contain works from academics and policymakers with unparalleled access to and understanding of the motivations of Iranian leadership, making this collection of particular significance to Western political analysts and those that seek to establish or strengthen relations with Iran. The international system has been experiencing considerable ongoing changes with shifts in power and influ-ence, especially in the Middle East, where Iran has emerged as a regional power and worldwide energy provider. This position has inspired a newfound level of interest in Iran, which can provide grounds for a new era in international relations with this enigmatic state. It is important to note at this point that Iran is not the simplified and irrational country promoted by international media but rather a shrewd and deeply complex nation with a diverse population in search of its rightful place in the community of states.
