salient before but that, over the years, have become central in the study of
Israeli national political systems. For example, Chapter 2 surveys the prob-
lem of national identity as it relates to the people of Israel, the position and
status of women in politics, and the process that led to the emergence of a
vital civil society--topics that received little attention in the study of poli-
tics during the 1970s. Finally, the book discusses these issues as they relate
to the future of politics in Israel.

Several individuals have been helpful in commenting on and preparing
the manuscript, although the authors alone are responsible for its contents.
Special thanks go to Rebecca Kook, Maoz Azaryahu, Maya Peretz, and
Martin Sherman for their useful suggestions and to Moti Levi and Penina
Elkis for assisting in research.

Gideon Doron, Tel Aviv
Don Peretz, Washington, D.C.

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