Abstract

The relationship of the notions «ethnic» and «cultural national identity», «national mentality» is being discusses from the point of view of the socio-philosophical discourse. This research is based on a standard classification of national identity, which is represented by such scientists as P. Alter, M. Ignatiev, A. Smith. The article identifies common and distinctive features of cultural identity depicted in the approaches of these scientists. As a result the author describes the opportunity to summarize the semantic values of cultural identity to the notion of «ethno-cultural national identity». Also it is available to add new definition «national mentality» to the following components of the given notion: traditions, customs, language, religion. In turn this analysis enhances and clarifies the load contents of the cultural national identity. Taking all above in this work a digression into the history of the concept of «national mentality» and its interpretations in the Ukrainian science are also carried. The structural components of the cultural national identity are installed. The scientists researches regarding the classification of the concept of «national identity» for correction of the cultural foundation of the concepts and refining its structural content was used by the author. The concepts of «ge netic» and «gained national mentality» are discussed, their essence is revealed. The role of the historical past in the development of specific features of the mindset that affects the traditions and customs of other people and on its formation as a basis for cultural development of Nations and States is emphasised. Argues that the notion of «national mentality» as the basis of cultural national identity complements her existential and ontological value.