As of the mid 1980s, many kibbutzim became deeply indebted and went into grave economic troubles, which affected adversely both their competitiveness and the spiritual resilience of the kibbutz society. The combination of economic and ideological crises led to a crossroad from which the kibbutz may emerge as a reformed kibbutz, with a variety of new ideas as to the direction of the reform. It could also become, however, a disintegrated kibbutz with various options how to continue life in an ex-kibbutz village. Finally, kibbutz members may refrain from taking redressing initiatives and kibbutzim may enter a stage of gradual languor and demographic decline. This paper examines some of the more specific reasons which led to the arrival of the kibbutzim to the present crossroad, and the various options on the agenda for the future of the kibbutz today
