Religious Extremism and Status Quo Politics

International Journal of Humanities and Social Science

© 2021 by SSRG - IJHSS Journal

Volume 8 Issue 5

Year of Publication : 2021

Authors : Yaron Katz

10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V8I5P109

How to Cite?

Yaron Katz, "Religious Extremism and Status Quo Politics," SSRG International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, vol. 8,  no. 5, pp. 62-67, 2021. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V8I5P109

Abstract:

The paper examines the issue of status quo politics by examining the traditional compromise that identifies Israeli politics since the country's establishment in 1948. The research examines the relationship between politics and religion by analyzing the dual character of the country as a Jewish and democratic state. In the absence of a written constitution, the relationship between religion and politics has been governed by a political compromise known as “the religious status quo.” In a predominantly secular population, the agreement refers to a political understanding between secular and religious parties not to alter the communal arrangement concerning religious matters. The status quo model acknowledged the priority of religious demands in some areas in a way that reflects a social and political compromise rather than principled decision-making. This model still dominates Israeli society today – demonstrating the conflicting identities of the religious and secular communities. This unique structure protects religious freedom but rejects separating religion and state. It demonstrates the conflict of identities between the secular majority and the ultra-Orthodox minority about the role of religion in society – with the decision not to decide and adopt a religious status quo as a comprehensive political compromise.

Keywords:

religion, politics, status quo, compromise, Israel

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