“This ever-timely and powerful book delineates a psychological view of the collective processes that underlie the creation and development of the State of Israel and the relationship between the individual and collective processes up to the present time. Erel Shalit argues that Zionism is a myth of redemption that became a reality and is reinforced by the fear of annihilation and supported by the willingness of the individual to merge with the Grand Idea. Though this merging was necessary for the fulfilment of Zionism and the birth of a new nation there remains a ‘close proximity' (identification) between the individual, the collective and the mythic. Shalit analyses the various elements of the myths relating to Zionism - that of redemption (requiring splitting off weakness), revolt (against the merely spiritual Father) and identity change (introducing a new myth for the Jewish people, exchanging weakness for strength) - and the shadow of these myths. Shalit explores these phenomena with reference to Erikson, Fromm and, in particular, Neumann's theories regarding the emergence of the ego from the primal relationship. He discusses the consequences of the ‘close proximity' between individual and collective and the possibility of a ‘de-narcisstification' (dis-identification) coming about in the form of the death of the mythical and the emergence of the voice of the soul.” Marcus West, The Journal of Analytical Psychology , 2005

“An outstanding psychological study of one of the world's most complicated and fraught political situations.”
Prof. Andrew Samuels , author The Political Psyche.

“This is a fascinating book…” Dr. Yoram Yovell , author and psychoanalyst.

“An interesting and important book.” Dr. Yossi Beilin , former Minister of Justice.