'Paul Rivlin provides a rich and detailed long duree analysis of the Israeli economy that stretches beyond the economy into a sociological and political study of contemporary Israel. The work is detailed, comprehensive, and immensely useful for students of Israeli politics and society.' Guy Ben-Porat, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev 'Rivlin's definitive, balanced work on the Israeli economy reveals its ... Read morestrengths while emphasizing the costs of growth and the obstacles facing its further acceleration. By subjecting the country's key domestic and foreign policy issues to dispassionate economic analysis, he reveals their associated costs and benefits while providing implicit guidance for their resolution. As such, this study is relevant not just to the country's economy, but to its society and polity as well. It is essential reading for anyone interested in contemporary Israel.' Robert Springborg, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, California 'Thorough and easily read, Rivlin's fine work contextualizes and narrates Israel's unique economic development. With the experience of an economist and the eye of an historian, he carefully assesses how its talented population, socialist roots, waves of immigration, religion, security needs, Arab minority, the conflict, and globalization all shaped its changing economic history. Having carefully woven a fine tapestry, Rivlin has set the scholarly standard for a central facet of modern Israeli history.' Kenneth W. Stein, Emory University 'A much-needed addition to Israeli studies, Rivlin's comprehensive book on the Israeli economy excels in its scale and scope, offers a cogent case for the country's past impressive economic achievements, and confronts its future challenges.' Howard M. Wachtel, Founding Director, Center for Israeli Studies, American University Show Less