This is the ultimate collection of essays about Israeli society, its politics, schisms and institutions. Leading authors in this field tackle timely concerns, such as Israel's fight against terror, its relationships with the Palestinians, the mutual relationships between the civic society and the army, the status of women in society, and separation between state and religion. Particular attention is given to probing the state of human rights, minority rights, and health rights. The volume also discusses the tensions between liberalism and socialism, between state and religion, and between immigration groups, most notably resulting from the immigration from the former Soviet Union. The book analyses the relationships between democracy and bureaucracy, the issue of separation of powers in democracy and more specifically the role of the Supreme Court. It also sheds light on the roles of other influential institutions: the government, the Presidency, the Knesset, the Legal Advisor to the Government, and the State Comptroller. Finally, the book discusses the education system as well as the press council and its role in a democratic society.
This volume was previously published as a special issue of the journal Israel Affairs .