The Israeli Kibbutz (the Hebrew word for communal settlement) is a unique idea to establish a society that believes in mutual help and social justice. The economic system is based on equality, joint membership of property and cooperation of production. The basic idea of socialism is the fundamental principle in the kibbutz movement - each according to his ability, each according to his needs. The first kibbutz named Degania was founded almost 40 years before the State of Israel was proclaimed, in 1909. The kibbutz was founded by a group of pioneers and is located north of the Sea of Galilee.
The original physical structure of the kibbutzim is still quite similar. In addition to the kibbutz members homes there are also separate houses for children (this system is now changing) and communal facilities for all members such as dining hall, swimming pool, auditorium, library, tennis court, medical clinic, laundry, grocery shop, etc. The agricultural fields are located around the kibbutz and are usually within a short ride from the center of the kibbutz. The kibbutz covers a relatively small area and members are usually able walk from one place to another or ride a bicycle. For elderly members and the disabled, an electronic car is provided.
The decision-making process in the kibbutz is based on total democratic ideas. The kibbutz members gather together for a general assembly that decides on policy, choosing officials, authorizing the budget and approving new members. The day to day issues are handled by an elected committee and the chairperson of that committee together with the kibbutz secretary is the kibbutz executive board.
Working on the kibbutz has a special value for itself with the concept of dignity in labor. Members are assigned tasks and jobs on a rotation basis while each economic branch like agriculture, domestic or the kibbutz factory, is headed by an elected representative that is replaced every couple of years.
Education and child raising has changed dramatically in the past few years. In the earlier days of the kibbutz children of the same age group used to sleep together in "children houses". This has changed and today in most of the kibbutzim children sleep at their parents' home until they reach high school age. In recent years the children’s parents have become more involved in their children’s activities and the family unit has become more important and more powerful within the kibbutz.
Changes in the kibbutz way of life have taken place not only regarding more individualism regarding raising children but more individualism regarding each kibbutz member. Today members are more independent in their choices from selecting clothing and home furniture to where and how to spend their free time and vacations. Each member of the kibbutz also has a certain monthly allowance to spend as they wish.
The kibbutzim in Israel have developed their own tradition regarding Jewish festivals and national holidays. They have their own way of celebrating seasonal and agricultural festivals like the festival of "Shavuot", with songs, dance and art. They also have their own way of celebrating Bar and Bat Mitzvah’s and wedding ceremonies.