The recent turmoil in Israel has sparked flippant suggestions that the nation be split in two: a secular, modernizing state and a more traditional, nationalistic one.
One aspect that is difficult to measure even as it seems part of the dynamic is the extent to which the legislation and policies backed by the Hareidi MKs and Ministers represent the will of the Hareidi population. This is particularly true for the UTJ. The UTJ MKs and Ministers are chosen by their Rabbinical leaders. The Rabbinical leaders want policies that maximize their control over their communities. There is credible evidence that ordinary Hareidi men would like a more mdern education--Belz had agreed to use the core curriculum. Many want to work and improve the standard of living of their households. Also, even if the demographic threat is not realized, it has become and element in the political discourse. I imagine when a future government is not quite as beholden to the Hareidim as is the current one, there may be policies introduced that are designed to try to hold down family size by reducing subsidies and providing incentives for joining the work force. In other words, Lieberman is not going to appear holding such a radical position on this matter.
One aspect that is difficult to measure even as it seems part of the dynamic is the extent to which the legislation and policies backed by the Hareidi MKs and Ministers represent the will of the Hareidi population. This is particularly true for the UTJ. The UTJ MKs and Ministers are chosen by their Rabbinical leaders. The Rabbinical leaders want policies that maximize their control over their communities. There is credible evidence that ordinary Hareidi men would like a more mdern education--Belz had agreed to use the core curriculum. Many want to work and improve the standard of living of their households. Also, even if the demographic threat is not realized, it has become and element in the political discourse. I imagine when a future government is not quite as beholden to the Hareidim as is the current one, there may be policies introduced that are designed to try to hold down family size by reducing subsidies and providing incentives for joining the work force. In other words, Lieberman is not going to appear holding such a radical position on this matter.