RT Journal Article
T1 Secularism and democracy in Israel: military service as case study
T2 Secularismo y democracia en Israle: el servicio militar como caso de estudio
A1 Cote Pabón, Sebastián
A1 Torregroza Lara, Enver Joel
AB The article "Secularism and Democracy in Israel" explores the complex relationship between religion and democracy in Israel, focusing on compulsory military service as a case study. In 1992, Israel was defined as a "Jewish and democratic state," yet there is no consensus on how to balance these two aspects. The article argues that the Western concept of secularism, which separates religion from the state, does not fit the Israeli context. Instead, Israel is characterized by Jewish ethnic nationalism, where the synagogue defines the essence and boundaries of the nation. This intertwining of religion and state is evident in the exemption of ultra-Orthodox (Haredim) from military service. This exemption, dating back to 1948, conflicts with the democratic principle of equality and has been a contentious issue. Despite secular opposition, a significant portion of the population, including many secular Israelis, support maintaining this status quo due to traditional and religious pressures. The article highlights the challenges Israel faces in achieving a liberal secular state, as both religious and secular segments of society show ambivalence towards fully separating religion from state affairs. This dynamic prevents realizing a secular democratic model akin to Western standards.
PB Wiley
SN 1061-1924
YR 2019
FD 2019
LK https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/107957
UL https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/107957
LA eng
NO Torregroza Lara, Enver Joel & Cote Pabón, Sebastián (2019). Secularism and Democracy in Israel: Military Service as Case Study. Middle East Policy. 26-3, pp.134-150. https://doi.org/10.1111/mepo.12443
DS Docta Complutense
RD 17 may 2025