THE PROBLEM OF IDENTITY: OUTLINE OF THE EXISTENTIAL APPROACH

Abstract

Purpose. Clarify the conceptual outline of the existential approach to the problem of identity as an alternative theoretical-methodological position by contrast to essentialism and constructivism approaches. Methodology. The research is based on philosophical reflection understood as a special method to analyse sociocultural phenomena per se based on materials from various social sciences and a literary and artistic insight of reality. The theoretic and methodological standpoint is particularly based on the ideas of existential analysis (M. Heidegger) and logotherapy (V. Frankl). The general assumptions of phenomenology and existentialism as well as the P. Ricœur’s narrative identity concept were also valuable as research methods. Results. Several concepts of existential understanding of identity as a cohesive phenomenon have been formulated. The research has shown the existential nature of the problem of social and anthropological identity constituted by connection of meaning-of-life questions of “who am I?” and “What is it for?” The connection between the levels of social and anthropological identification – personal, sociocultural, and anthropological – have been clarified. Practical application. The results can be applied in development of social and political programs related to human development potential and patriotic education as a theoretical and methodological basis. The materials can also be used in teaching social philosophy and philosophical anthropology.

Keywords

• экзистенция
• идентичность
• идентификация
• жизненные смыслы
• смысл жизни
• персональная идентичность
• социокультурная идентичность
• антропологическая идентичность