Israeli Society

Abstract

This work constitutes a groundbreaking contribution to the literature of Israel studies. It examines Israeli society's journey through 2023, highlighting its swift transformation from political fragmentation, turmoil, and civil unrest to national unity and complete mobilization. This sudden change that occurred on October 7, 2023, is described in a broader historical and cultural context.

Readers of this groundbreaking work are treated to an in-depth analysis of the significant events of 2023, ranging from the legal and political implications of the announcement of judicial reform plans to the political disruptions that followed. Drawing on Jonathan Sacks's notion of a national covenant, David Ben-Gurion's concept of Halutzim, and Henri de Saint-Simon's ideas on avant-garde groups, this study makes sense of several seemingly incomprehensible aspects of recent events.

This publication will enlighten those keen on exploring Israeli society and deciphering its complex behaviors across various temporal dimensions. Students, scholars, and educators alike will discover essential readings on pivotal Israel studies topics within its pages.

WORDS OF PRAISE

This book represents one of the first accounts if not the first of the political-social crisis which Israeli society has been experiencing. Considering the widespread confusion and misrepresentation of the basic facts, Lewin has made a timely and balanced contribution to our understanding. What began as a struggle for constitutional and judicial reform in Israel could have resulted in a coup d'etat and civil war, were it not for the Hamas invasion, rapes, and massacres which took place on October 7, 2023. Lewin's analytical approach, which is based on solid sources and respected opinions, has brought us a mature and academically sound account.
--Dr. Joel Fishman, Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs and Israel Defense and Security Forum (IDSF)

This essay provides readers with an original viewpoint that creatively recounts the narrative of Israeli society. This academic examination of the turbulence experienced by Israel in 2023 addresses judicial, political, and military aspects in a manner that has not been previously recorded.
--Prof. Asher Cohen, Department of Political Studies, Bar-Ilan University

It takes courage to delve into the intricate fabric of divisions within Israeli society. Professionalism demands the ability to go beyond temporal and spatial constraints, a task that Lewin adeptly fulfills with the meticulous expertise of a political sociologist!
--Dr. Assaf Malach, Shalem College and Jewish Statesmanship Center

Authored from the vantage point of a seasoned researcher aligned with a republican ethos and associated with Israel's right wing, this book uncovers the intricacies and robustness of Israeli society. Lewin offers insight into the essence and endurance of Israeli society amidst trials and existential challenges, portraying it as a society driven by vitality and determined to rediscover its foundational covenant of destiny as a pillar for survival.
--Prof. Kobi Michael, University of South Wales; Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), Tel Aviv University; and Misgav Institute for National Security and Zionist Strategy

About the Author

Eyal Lewin is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Middle Eastern Studies and Political Science at Ariel University. His papers and books primarily delve into topics such as national resilience, civil-military relations, ethos, and collective narratives. Taking a comparative perspective, his political psychology research explores the dynamics and behavior of Israeli society.