Emerging Patterns of Ethnic Strain in Israel

Abstract

This paper discusses some aspects of Israeli society which have been conducive to the development of strained ethnic relations and manifestations of prejudice. Despite certain cohesive features such as a common religious and ethnic background and a high level of ideological committment and collective solidarity, there has been increasing evidence of a reduction in this solidarity. Emerging divisiVe elements in the social structure are described and are partially attributed to the heightened solidarity and visibility of specific ethnic groups of immigrants.