uch to the preservation of a singular and rich culture and tradition. The holocaust itself, is never to be forgotten, and this fact is evidence within contemporary Jewish culture. The continuance of a normal life and tradition is one which, albeit interrupted, is for that very reason that Judaism and the people of Israel persist with a renewed sense of motivation and determination. The innumerous languages and translations of Hebrew writings which have emanated from the Institute of Translation of Hebrew Literature (1962) continue to infuse Hebrew writings, poetry, children' literature and fine arts into its own society as well as peoples world wide. CONTEMPORARY ISRAEL In his book, A History of Israel, Howard Sachar discussed the development of Israel from the rise of Zionism to our time. Currently, Israel's president is elected by the Knesset and he may preside over a legislative body of 120 members for a maximum of two five-year terms. The Israeli form of government may be considered a democratic one and, like the United States, citizenship is determined by birth, residence or nationalization. The state of Parliament and the government is essential in understanding the development and evolution of Israel in contemporary times. Israel's democracy has experienced difficulties in terms of its parties, historically, where it represented one of the critical weaknesses of the emerging Israeli state; a politicization, not less tenacious or all-embracing than in the days of the Yishuv. It is recalled that this legacy could be traced to the non-indigenous origins of Israeli's parties. They were born and nurtured in the diaspora. This European inspired ideological commitment survived for nearly a decade after the birth of Israel, and in its relentless purism, ensured that none of the various factions were willing to compromise on issues of dogma, much less on the question of self liquidation. Government by coalition and demagoguery have charac...
