Includes bibliographical references (p. 271-283) and index.

1. Introduction -- 2. The economy of the Yishuv and its legacy -- 3. The economy 1948-1985 -- 4. Macro-economic developments, growth and policy -- 5. globalization and high technology -- 6. Defense: service or burden? -- 7. Israel and the Palestinians -- 8. The economics of religion -- 9. The Arab minority -- 10. Demographic developments and socioeconomic divisions -- 11. Conclusions.

Summary: "This book analyzes the development of the Israeli economy in its historical context. It shows how the ideology of the dominant group in the Zionist movement led to the development of agriculture , thus meeting the preconditions for successful industrialization . Remarkable, if uneven, growth has taken place, with increasing allocations for defense. Regional isolation led to the emphasis on high- quality exports for developed markets that has stimulated the technological base. Israel has benefi ted from mass immigration and increased access to foreign capital - factors that have transformed the economy. The book includes chapters on the development of the Jewish community in Palestine during the British Mandate ; macroeconomic developments and economic policy; globalization and high technology ; defense ; the economics of the Arab minority; Israeli settlements and relations with the Palestinians ; and the role of religion. It concludes with an examination of the socioeconomic divisions that have widened as the economy has grown" (provided by the publisher)