The Israeli Economy from the Foundation of the State through the 21st Century

This book analyzes the development of the Israeli economy in its historical context.

Paul Rivlin (Author)

9780521190374, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 15 November 2010

312 pages, 37 b/w illus. 2 maps 45 tables
23.5 x 15.8 x 2.3 cm, 0.53 kg

'A much-needed addition to Israeli studies, Rivlin's comprehensive book on the Israeli economy excels in its scale and scope, offers a cogent case for the country's past impressive economic achievements, and confronts its future challenges.' Howard M. Wachtel, Founding Director, Center for Israeli Studies, American University

This book analyzes the development of the Israeli economy in its historical context. It shows how the ideology of the dominant group in the Zionist movement led to the development of agriculture, thus meeting the preconditions for successful industrialization. Remarkable, if uneven, growth has taken place, with increasing allocations for defense. Regional isolation led to the emphasis on high-quality exports for developed markets that has stimulated the technological base. Israel has benefited from mass immigration and increased access to foreign capital, factors that have transformed the economy. The book includes chapters on the development of the Jewish community in Palestine during the British Mandate; macroeconomic developments and economic policy; globalization and high technology; defense; the economics of the Arab minority; Israeli settlements and relations with the Palestinians; and the role of religion. It concludes with an examination of the socioeconomic divisions that have widened as the economy has grown.

1. Introduction
2. The economy of the Yishuv and its legacy
3. The economy 1948–1985
4. Macro-economic developments, growth and policy
5. Globalization and high technology
6. Defense: service or burden?
7. Israel and the Palestinians
8. The role of religion
9. The Arab minority
10. Socio-economic divisions
11. Conclusions.

Subject Areas: Economic history [KCZ], Development economics & emerging economies [KCM], Economic growth [KCG], Middle Eastern history [HBJF1], History [HB]