The Dilemma of Reconciling Traditional, Cultural, and Political Needs: Civil Religion in Israel

Abstract

There are two models or conceptions of the primary function of modern governments. We call one the service model. According to this model, the function of government is to provide services and to reconcile conflicting interests among different groups and individuals. David Apter uses the term reconciliation system to describe the secular-libertarian form of authority which generally characterizes such a state.' He contrasts it with what he calls a mobilization system characterized by a sacred collectivity form of authority. This fits, with some modification, what we call a visionary model. In this model, government has a predetermined vision or goal, and its primary function is to educate and mobilize on its behalf. The term vision is appropriate since the goals transcend the immediate material needs of the nation's population, which is conceived of as a moral community. Our models stand at two ends of a theoretical continuum and are useful in