The phenomenological analysis of political science students’ attitudes towards the factors influencing political trust (political officials in the Islamic Republic of Iran)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD student, Political Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

2 Master's degree in Political Science, Faculty of Humanities, Payam Noor Qochan University, Qochan, Iran

Abstract
This research was conducted with the aim of analyzing the phenomenological perspectives of political science students towards the factors influencing political trust (political officials in the Islamic Republic of Iran). In this study, a qualitative approach and interpretative phenomenological method were used. The target population of the study consisted of postgraduate political science students from universities across the country in 2023. Through purposive sampling, interviews were conducted with 19 individuals. Data collection was done through semi-structured in-depth interviews. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis method based on grounded theory and a three-stage coding method by Strauss and Corbin (1990). Based on the results, 10 main themes (political legitimacy; management and performance weaknesses; democracy; economic security; cultural security; agent-oriented; political security; ideological; social security and judicial security), 4 sub-themes (political, social, economic, and cultural) and 62 codes were identified. It was concluded that in order to build trust in the country’s political officials, policies should be aimed at predictability, commitment, competence, transparency, and responsiveness. Through these policies, it is possible to help reduce political distrust in society.

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Volume 18, Issue 4 - Serial Number 72
No.72
Autumn 2023
Pages 169-203

  • Receive Date 29 February 2024
  • Revise Date 21 April 2024
  • Accept Date 13 May 2024