Identities (with (out)?) Knowledge Foundation: Conversing with Rogers Brubaker

Abstract

In article the analysis of identity’s knowledge bases in discussion with the concept of Rogers Brubaker’s «ethnicity without groups» is carried out. R. Brubaker's concept is analyzed from the point of view of knowledge sociology, its comparison with concepts, key for the analysis of the knowledge constitution of identity, is carried out. It is emphasized that the knowledge which is in the constitution of identity, becomes more and more diversified and – here the author of article agrees with Brubaker – more and more «aloof» from group and from the socio-structural basis of identity. The conclusion that identity, remaining a microlevel phenomenon with cognitive, affective and konativny aspects, at the macrolevel more and more moves away from the socio-structural and material prerequisites, turning into knowledge constituions or even constructs, is drawn.