The old pillar: Israel’s kibbutzim have changed beyond recognition – so what keeps them alive?

A special issue of Israel Studies Review, guest-edited by Dr. Avi Shnider and Prof. Aviad Rubin, examines the evolving nature of Israel's kibbutzim and moshavim. The nine papers explore how these communities have changed significantly from their original Zionist ethos, with many privatizing aspects of their economies and blurring the lines between traditional kibbutz and moshav structures. Dr. Shnider notes, "The ethos of the kibbutz and moshav that you have in your head isn't there anymore." The research, which began before October 7, gained renewed relevance after the attacks highlighted these communities' continued importance, particularly in border regions. The studies analyze why people still choose to live in these settlements, focusing on organizational, spatial, and communal dimensions, and reveal a more diverse population than the traditional image suggests. Despite a temporary surge of national solidarity post-October 7, Shnider believes underlying societal divisions persist, stating, "The car accident that happened to Israeli society now will not save it from diabetes."