Israeli Activism American-Style: Civil Liberties, Environmental, and Peace Organizations as Pressure Groups for Social Change, 1970s-1990s

Abstract

Like the United States, Israel has become a complicated mosaic culturally, ethnically, demographically, and politically, giving rise to considerable problems and conflicts. 1 Seeking solutions to domestic challenges, educated middle class and aZuent Israelis have chosen the United States as a role model since the 1970s. As Israel deepened its economic and military dependence on the United States, and educated Israelis were more exposed to American cultural trends, a process of Americanization transformed the country into a place unlike the one the founding fathers envisioned. For some time, the top-level managerial, media, and academic professionals have been American trained. 2 Old-style Eastern European political culture is giving way to "political correctness" and to democratic primary elections in lieu of party bosses determining potential candidates for the Knesset. 3 The Americanization of Israeli politics has led to ideological devaluation as emphasis in election campaigning on personalities and their media image--the wrapping--prevails over essence. 4 Recently, Edward Walker, U.S. Ambassador to Israel, complained about this style of politicking and the recruiting of American election strategists: