Borders of religious identity in sociology

The author attempts to consider the concept of religious identity in opposition to cultural, ethnic and national identity in sociology. H. Abramson’s point of view on the connection between religion and ethnic identity is presented. It is argued that in some cases religion plays a stable and fundamental role in shaping ethnic identity, but it is also influenced by other important factors such as territory and language. The author examines the role of religion in cultural identity formation and views the difference between religion as a belief and religion as a marker of identity (according to the concept of Linda L. Woodhead). N. Balich’s position on religious identity is also mentioned. According to Balich, religious identity in a society depends on the nature of the religion and culture of this society, as well as on social factors. Further, the author examines the relationship between religious and national identity, as well as the point of view of A. Smith.