Description: This book examines the nature of citizenship in Israel as pertaining to particular group demands and to the dynamics of political life in the public arena. Focusing on a wide range of social groups from the military, through ethnic minorities, religious groupings, and the gay and lesbian community, contributors explore different aspects of citizenship through the needs, demands and struggles of minority groups to provide a comprehensive picture of the dynamics of Israeli citizenship and the dilemmas that emerge at the collective, group and individual levels.
Review Quotes:
"Israel has been characterized as a society with multiple self-definitions, many different frontiers and borders, and continuing controversies over recognition. Profs. Ben-Porat and Turner cycle into these discussions a book that revolves around multiple facets of citizenship.
It is a very useful collection of original papers that examine a dozen the most interesting and complex aspects of Israel today. The chapters are written by leading experts on contemporary issues within Israel. The book can serve as a fascinating introduction to Israeli society as well as source of commentary and insight for those already familiar with the cultural complexities of this fascinating county."
Russell A. Stone, Professor Emeritus of Sociology, American University in Washington.
"Ben Porat and Turner are offering in this pioneering book an insight into the conflicts embedded in Israel's struggles to define the political meaning of citizenship in a rifted society that is still in search for its collective identity. No future study of citizenship and Israeli society will be complete without a serious reading of this important volume of original scholarship. Highly recommended."
Gad Barzilai, Professor of International Studies, Law & Political Science, University of Washington.