Reclaiming "Normal Life": Everyday Resistance by Gen Z in Iran
Abstract
This paper examines how Generation Z (Gen Z) bridges online and offline spaces to reclaim normal life. Drawing on the concepts of “quiet encroachment” and “everyday resistance”, I argue that resistance flows between online and offline realms, quietly reshaping the boundaries of social life. This study adopts an anthropological approach, employing ethnographic methods in both offline and online spaces to explore the lived experiences of Iranian Gen Z. Data were collected during three fieldwork periods, through online materials, and during in-depth interviews. A reflective thematic analysis identified two core themes: Gen Z's everyday resistance and 'reclaiming normal life' within the context of the Woman–Life–Freedom movement. Keywords: everyday resistance, Gen Z, second life, Iran, Woman–Life–Freedom movement, reclaiming normal life
Fields of Study & Subjects
Gender
Feminism
and Media
Social Media and Politics
Media
Religion
Digital Communication
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Suomen Antropologi Journal of the Finnish Anthropological Society
- Publisher
- Suomen Antropologi: Journal of the Finnish Anthropological Society
- Volume
- 50
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 175–200
- Publication date
- 1 April 2026
- Language
- EN