Political processes in an Israeli Kibbutz

Abstract

A review of approaches to political processes and structures concludes that they are mutually influential. The formal and informal arenas of kibbutz politics are outlined historically, and patterns of participation in politics according to gender, age and social networks identified. Three cases are analysed, showing the interaction of formal and informal political arenas, adept formal political action, and power exercised through gossip. The conclusion reviews process/structure interactions in kibbutz politics and argues that these reveal economic, generational, ideological and gender role change.