Constantly Reshaping Social Identities in the Middle East

This book arises from papers presented at the first international academic conference by the Middle East and Central Asia Research Center (MECARC) at Ariel University, Israel. It compiles works that address gaps in academic literature, focusing on the influence of communities and leaders on socio-political identities. While much literature on the Middle East often centers on politics and security from a state-centric perspective, this book emphasizes the importance of identities and narratives within cultural, religious, and social contexts. The chapters explore diverse actors shaping identities, highlighting their impact across local, national, regional, and global levels. Aimed at specialists, advanced and undergraduate students in Middle Eastern Studies, Israel Studies, and comparative political science, this volume also appeals to a broader readership interested in the formation of collective identities, especially in the Mediterranean region. It offers insights that are accessible and engaging for those interested in popular social science.

Gadi Hitman is an Assistant Professor (Senior Lecturer) and Chair of the Department of Middle Eastern Studies and Political Science at Ariel University. Hitman wrote five books and nearly forty articles on the Gulf States region, consequences of the regional turmoil in the Middle East and theoretical/empiric aspects of nationalism, ethnicity, political protest or violence, and narratives. Hitman worked for the Israeli prime Minister Office for 25 years.Eyal Lewin is an Assistant Professor (Senior Lecturer) whose authored papers and books predominantly delve into topics such as national resilience, civil-military relations, ethos, and collective narratives. Primarily centered on a comparative perspective, his political psychology research explores the dynamics and behavior of Israeli society.