Abstract

The paper examines theoretical and methodological approaches to the study of state borders. Complexity of the concept of state border is analyzed as variable and depending on the historical, political and socio­cultural context. The author considers the possibility of studying the border as a social institution and as a cultural construct. The author notes that institutionally border forms quite clearly, and most sociological theories refer to this concept is the light of the functional approach. However, we should also pay attention to such important factors as the everyday practices of individuals, cultural and symbolic factors, without them understanding of the place and the role of the state border is almost impossible. The study of the state border only as a social institution is insufficient and it leads to the need for updating the socio­cultural approach. In particular, the applicability of functional and sociocultural approaches were analyzed as well as prospects of interdisciplinary study of the state border of Ukraine and borders in general. So, based on the principles of sociology, cultural studies, political science, history and considering the boundary in the light of various scientific disciplines can get the most complete and perfect answers to the key research questions.