Journal of Iranian Social Studies

Abstract This study aimed to investigate fatalism and social factors affecting on it among Kerman's citizens. 385 men and women 18-65 were selected using multistage cluster sampling method. The data were gathered using questionnaire and data analysis was carried out using T-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient, Regression correlation coefficient and Path Analysis Tests. The results showed a positive correlation between independent variables (rate of religiosity, feeling of powerlessness, feeling of social alienation, feeling of social inequality and power structure) and fatalism. A negative correlation between the need for success and fatalism was documented. Regression analysis showed that the variables of feeling of powerlessness, religiosity, need for success and feeling of social alienation were effective in explaining the dependent variable and were able to predict 22 percent of the variance of the variable of fatalism. The study concludes that providing equal opportunities for all citizens to participate in society could reduce feelings of alienation, powerlessness, and social inequality that lead to decrease the level of fatalism.