An Analysis of U.S. Misperceptions Regarding the Foundations of the Islamic Republic of Iran's Foreign Policy

Abstract

 This study aims to explain the origins and dimensions of United States misperceptions concerning the foreign policy foundations of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The research is conducted based on Max Weber’s interpretive sociology (Verstehen). Instead of analyzing state behavior solely through material data, this methodology focuses on understanding the subjective meanings and values held by political actors. The central question of this research is: what reasons can be provided for the U.S. misperception of Iran’s foreign policy? The research hypothesis suggests that this misperception is rooted in the political and epistemological nature of the Iranian system. This system is defined by divine sovereignty, justice-centered principles, and religious Ummah-oriented goals, operating within a post-Westphalian and idealist framework. In contrast, the United States continues to analyze the behavior of other actors through the lens of the Westphalian order, utilizing instrumental and secular rationality. The findings show that these two conflicting systems of meaning have created a deep perceptual and interpretive gap in Tehran-Washington relations. From Iran’s perspective, foreign policy is not merely a tool for increasing power, but a means to achieve a religious mission and global justice. However, the United States views this approach as a threat to the existing international order. The study concludes that without an interpretive understanding of the identity and epistemological foundations of the Islamic Republic of Iran, any policy-making or engagement by the United States will remain prone to significant perceptual errors.