Examines the broad-ranging domestic roles of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, assessing its influence over Iran's political culture, economy, and society and its ability to shape the political future of the Islamic Republic of Iran.--Publisher description.

"Prepared for the Office of the Secretary of Defense." "MG-821-OSD."--Page [4] of cover. "Approved for public release; distribution unlimited."

Introduction -- The IRGC in context: Iran's security and political landscape -- The IRGC's diverse domestic roles: origins and evolution -- Militarizing civil society: the IRGC's indoctrination, training, and media activities -- Economic expansion: the IRGC's business conglomerate and public works -- The IRGC in politics -- Conclusion: toward a more strategic understanding of the IRGC -- Appendixes: A. Business organizations affiliated with the IRGC or influenced by IRGC personnel -- B. Current and former IRGC personnel -- C. Evolution of the Islamic republic and the IRGC -- D. Provincial map of Iran -- E. Glossary of Persian terms.