“There can be no more urgent issues facing the contemporary State of Israel than the relationship between democracy and its Jewish identity. In these trenchant and timely essays, the authors—all of them distinguished Israeli scholars—approach the question with tools of political theory, history, law and the philosophy of religion.”

- David Biale, Emanuel Ringelblum Professor of Jewish History, Chair, Department of History, University of California, Davis,

“An outstanding collection of essays by the leading scholars writing on modern Israel. Anyone who wants to think deeper about the Jewish and democratic character of Israel and the complicated relationship between state and religion should read this book.”

- Michael Brenner, Distinguished Historian in Residence and Director of the Center for Israel Studies, American University,

“The essays in this volume are always illuminating, often passionate, and at times provocative. They enrich our understanding of Israel’s political and legal system, and they are particularly useful for providing differing perspectives on the ongoing debate over whether Israel can be both a Jewish and democratic state. Clearly and accessibly written, this volume will be a valuable resource for undergraduates and general readers as well as specialists.”

- Derek Penslar, Stanley Lewis Professor of Israel Studies, University of Oxford,