Mosques as Discursive Centers in the Reproduction of Identity and Social Capital:An Analysis of Central and Peripheral Neighborhoods of Khorramabad

This qualitative study, using Fairclough’s and Van Dijk’s discourse analysis methods, explored the role of mosques in representing social identity and producing social capital in the central and peripheral neighborhoods of Khorramabad city. Data were collected from 25 recorded sermons, 30 bulletin announcements, 15 local news items, and participatory observations in 12 mosques. Findings revealed that mosques act as identity-shaping spaces delineating the boundaries of “us” and “them” based on religious-cultural ties and livelihood conditions. In central neighborhoods, discourses emphasized cultural-historical heritage and positive terms such as “Islamic unity” and “enduring heritage” to reproduce a positive group identity; while in peripheral neighborhoods, discourses focused on livelihood needs and social support such as “Islamic solidarity” and “feeding the needy,” alongside negative terms like “imposed poverty” and “institutional injustice.” Analysis of discourse production and consumption indicated stronger social capital and more active participation at the levels of collaboration and delegation (according to Arnstein’s model) in central neighborhoods, whereas peripheral areas showed limited social capital and controlled participation. Institutional challenges such as budget mismatches and lack of resources led to reduced trust and limited mosque functions. Based on social identity theory and social capital theory, mosque discourses strengthened group belonging and social cohesion, but institutional limitations in peripheral neighborhoods weakened social capital and participation. It is recommended that optimal budget allocation, support for mosque programs in peripheral areas, development of participatory programs, and enhanced cooperation between mosques and NGOs be pursued to foster social capital and social solidarity.