Politics and Government in Israel: The Maturation of a Modern State

(Paperback, Third Edition)

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Description

This balanced and comprehensive text explores Israeli government and politics from both institutional and behavioral perspectives. After briefly discussing Israels history and the early development of the state, Gregory Mahler then examines the social, religious, economic, cultural, and military contexts within which Israeli politics takes place. He makes special note of Israels geopolitical situation of sharing borders with, and being proximate to, several hostile Arab nations. The book explains the operation of political institutions and behavior in Israeli domestic politics, including the constitutional system and ideology, parliamentary government, the prime minister and the Knesset, political parties and interest groups, the electoral process and voting behavior, and the machinery of government. Mahler also considers Israels foreign policy setting and apparatus, the Palestinians and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the particularly sensitive questions of Jerusalem and the Israeli settlement movement, and the Middle East peace process overall. This clear and concise text provides an invaluable starting point for all readers needing a cogent introduction to Israel today.

Reviews

Mahlers new edition is the best introductory textbook on Israeli government and politics available today. His institutional perspective presents a balanced and thorough explanation of a complex and constantly developing political system. This is an up-to-date and indispensable book for those who want a better understanding of both the continuities and the changes in modern Israel. -- Reuven Y. Hazan, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
This updated version of Greg Mahlers comprehensive, balanced, and readable volume retains all of the strengths of previous editions. I recommend it highly to anyone seeking to understand politics and society in Israel. -- Mark Tessler, University of Michigan
This updated edition of Mahlers comprehensive text sheds new light on how Israeli politics have been continually developing in recent years. The fresh writing on the nuclear debates and the peace process is indispensable, and the new discussion of religion and politics is necessary to any study of Israel. This text is perfect for students who are new to the subject of political science or those who want to learn more about Israel and its influences. -- Ilan Peleg, Lafayette College

Author Bio

Gregory S. Mahler is vice president for academic affairs, academic dean, and professor of politics at Earlham College.