Abstract

The purpose of the study is to reveal the essence of existing approaches to conceptualizing the concept of "city space" as a construct of places significant for citizens, to reveal the essence of approaches to conceptualizing the concepts of "place" and "non-place" of a city. The article examines the issues of social and public space in philosophy, attempts to conceptualize the term "place" from different points of view, and also highlights two approaches to understanding this term – functional and interpretive. The scientific novelty lies in carrying out a socio-philosophical analysis of the discursive representation of urban identity in the scientific works of domestic and foreign authors. As a result, two approaches to understanding the term "place" were identified – functional and interpretive. The point of contact of these approaches is that the place, both virtual and real, must be endowed with meaning and meet the needs of citizens regarding the comfort of the urban environment.