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Book: The Reality of Arabic in Israel

Chapter: Introduction

DOI: 10.1558/equinox.46239

Blurb:

The Introduction delves into language disputes as focal points for political, cultural, and ethnic conflicts worldwide. It highlights languageā€™s pivotal role in shaping identity and social cohesion, particularly in complex sociopolitical contexts like Israel, South Africa, and Cyprus. The text underscores the complexities of teaching and learning languages amid conflict, advocating for including minority languages in education. Additionally, it explores the nuanced dynamics of the Arab minority in Israel, revealing a complex interplay of identity, integration, and societal tensions. Israeli Arabs, distinct from Palestinians, navigate a unique cultural landscape within Israel, marked by divisions in education, politics, and socioeconomic disparities. Despite advancements in representation and education, challenges persist, including issues of loyalty, discrimination, and the ongoing Arab-Israeli conflict, which intricately intertwines language, politics, and identity.

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