Identity formation and humanities

The article deals with the problems of the impact on ethno-cultural identity formation and the contemporary dynamics of such identity. The main features of ethno-cultural identity are defined. Globalization is described as a key factor in the transformation of ethnocultural identity in the conditions of modern society. Major trends in the ethnocultural identity changes in the age of globalization are pointed out: the unification and regionalization. The author states the increasing importance of the new, global, type of identity (“cosmopolitan identity”) in the context of globalization. This type of identity is interpreted as an additional level of identification of modern human. The need to supplement local identity with cosmopolitan identity is noted. The role of humanities, primarily philosophical education, in the transformation of identity processes is emphasized. The worldview and value education are seen as the fundamental features of humanities. Philosophical education is interpreted as a tool of the formation of critical thinking, as well as a means of analysis and revaluation of identity. It is concluded that liberal arts education is an effective means of broadcasting ethnocultural identity, as well as the forming of a cosmopolitan identity in contemporary society.