Embracing the Bomb:

How and Why Nuclear Weapons Are Becoming Normalized in Iran

The evolution of ideas from unthinkable to popular underscores significant shifts in societal norms and political discourse. As these once-marginal notions become integrated into mainstream thought, they possess the power to reshape legislative frameworks, influence diplomatic interactions, and transform official policies. This book project takes a focused look at these dynamics within Iranian nuclear politics, investigating how the narrative around nuclear weapons has transitioned from taboo to a topic of national debate.

The book offers a comprehensive analysis of Iran's evolving nuclear discourse, charting its trajectory from a strictly controlled government narrative to a more open and robust public debate. It meticulously traces how, initially, nuclear technology was framed solely in terms of scientific advancement and national pride, with stringent restrictions placed on discussions that ventured into the domain of weaponization. This framing was part of a broader strategy to cultivate a sense of technological self-sufficiency, strategically promoting nuclear nationalism while managing to navigate international diplomacy.

The narrative then shifts to a critical juncture: the signing and subsequent failure of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and especially the impact of the U.S. withdrawal from the agreement. This event marked the beginning of a new era in public discussion on nuclear weapons, particularly among civil society actors such as academics, journalists, and activists. The book scrutinizes how these discussions, once confined to the margins of public discourse, have brought the notion of a nuclear-armed Iran into the mainstream, reflecting a significant shift in public sentiment and policy debate. To deepen this analysis, the book also employs original public opinion data to explore how the public perceives the nuclear program and the idea of weaponization. This data provides invaluable insights into the evolving attitudes towards Iran’s nuclear program and its potential weaponization.

The book employs a mixed-method approach to provide a comprehensive exploration of Iran's evolving nuclear discourse. Archival research provides a backdrop of the government's foundational narratives. Content analysis of newspapers, media reports, and elite speeches sheds light on both public and official narratives that have influenced the discourse on nuclear weaponization. Additionally, public opinion data offers empirical insights into how Iranian views have shifted in response to these discussions. By integrating these methods, the book presents a detailed picture of how the national debate has resulted in the normalization of nuclear weapons in Iran.