Abstract: The subject of this article is a monographic research of the Senior Scientific Associate of the Institute of Russian History of the Russian Academy of Sciences A. V. Belova, which is focused on the large-scale transformations that took place in urban life of the Russian Empire during the reign of Catherine II. The author of the monograph seeks to characterize the reforms based on the example of four provinces of Central Russia: Moscow, Yaroslavl, Vladimir, and Kaluga. This work vastly uses published and unpublished sources, as well as a significant array of research literature. The peer-reviewed work leans on the principles of historicism, reliability, objectivity; methodological framework includes systematic approach and comparative method. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the fact that the author attempts to give comprehensive characteristics to preparation, implementation and consequences of the city reform carried out by the Empress Catherine, attracting the materials from four Russian “indigenous” provinces. The author believes that despite certain doubts of both, contemporaries and future historians, especially of the liberal school, namely the reforms of Catherine the Great laid the foundations for the fundamentally new type of a city that met the requirements of the time.

Abstract: The research subject is the work of the senior research fellow of the Institute of Russian History of the Russian Academy of Sciences S.A. Kozlov, studying business activities of Russian agricultural scientists of the 19th - early 20th centuries and their work aimed at popularization of science. The author describes the roles of 13 pioneers, the real professionals and zealots, who for various reasons were forgotten in the Soviet period of history, in educating Russian peasantry and improving particular sectors of agriculture. The reviewed work is based on a wide set of published and archive sources. Kozlov’s research uses the concrete historical approach and the comparative historical method. The author studies the life and work of the scientists in the context of the transformations which were happening at that period of the history of Russia. The scientific novelty of the work consists in the fact that it is the first to attempt to evaluate the evolution of agricultural economic thought in Russia which, by the end of the 19th century, had become an independent element of social culture. The analysis of ideas of pre-revolutionary agricultural scientists who substantiated the necessity to combine traditions and novations, helps to study the experience that can be used for modernization of agriculture in Russia. 
 

Abstract: The subject of the research is the work of young sociologists from Nizhny Novgorod, E.A. Urusova and T.M. Khusyainova, in which the sociocultural changes taking place before our eyes in the megalopolis are shown. The authors strive to show the need for equal access to the urban environment of various social groups, including people with disabilities. They see an important role in the formation of megacities in the creative space, which gives previously unprecedented opportunities for the creative development of individuals. The peer-reviewed paper is based on the principles of analysis and synthesis, reliability, objectivity, and a systematic approach serves as the methodological basis. The authors also use the methods of social research, in particular the survey.The scientific novelty of the article under review is determined by the fact that the authors strive to show the processes of influence of the urban space of the megalopolis on the communicative and creative possibilities of its inhabitants, including the disabled. When solving issues of creating a barrier-free environment, the authors draw attention not only to architectural, but also to social components.

Abstract: Transport is the foundation of modern society; especially its role is noticeable in the conditions of megalopolis. Namely the development of communication means allowed expanding the urban limits, avoiding the population overcrowding, and as an aftermath, unsanitary conditions, shifting towards the era of suburbanization. However, the advancement of continuous-flow production led to the rapid increase in the number of personal vehicles. The collapse in megalopolises is a result of explosive vehicle-to-population ratio, reducing the public transport park, particularly tramways. In fact, human movement on the roads became independent from their objectives, but rather relates to a significant element of chance. The author compares the various conceptual schemes and options of their implementation in terms of establishment of the city transportation systems. The author leans on theory of postmodernism of Jean Baudrillard. The future of urban transport can carry only social character. The priority vector is the toughening of requirements to the vehicles, including the reduction of the entrance areas and development of subways, dual-mode buses, and express tramways. The positive example of Copenhagen and Curitiba, as well as the actions of the Moscow authorities testify to the fact that making a city comfortable, accessible to all social groups, is realistic in the foreseeable future.

Abstract: The subject of this article is to study the strategy of food security primarily on the example of Russia. The urgency lies in the fact that the current situation in Russia, due to sanctions against it as not seen in recent years, has drastically increased demand for state support of agriculture. Despite numerous program international instruments prohibiting the use of food supplies as a tool of political pressure, the events of recent decades suggests otherwise. In this regard, particular attention is paid to the study of the historical perspective of the complex measures used by Russian authorities in order to achieve the main goal: providing the population with high-quality food products based on its own resources. The methodological base of the research consists of the comparative-historical method and system analysis method. The main conclusion of the study is the need to build multistructure approach in Russia, combining small farms and large agricultural holdings. It is stated that during the XX century both Soviet and Russian authorities made crucial miscalculation, which focused on one fundamental factor in the development of agriculture: the destruction of communities and the planting of private land ownership, forcing mass collectivization under Stalin's rule. It is shown that in modern conditions, an important factor in increasing the marketability of agricultural production will shift towards a "green economy".

Abstract: The subject of this research is a city, which has become an integral part of everyday life, but at the same time imposes demands on the environment. Multiple researchers attempt to create a favorable image of cities of the future; however, the main challenge is so that human comfort would not harm the environment. The basic need of a modern man is the pursuit of environmental friendliness, which found reflection in the works of sociologists, philosophers, and urban planners. The concepts of E. Howard remained just a utopia, but city of the future can only be "green”. The article applies the comparative analysis, situational analysis, structuring of new concepts on the basis of the Russian and foreign sources. Urban civilization will continue to be the heart of human life. The smart technologies and interaction with biosphere will become the key components of cities of the future. It implies the use of renewable energy, advancement of public electric transport, creation of cyclist-friendly environment. The South Korea’s smartest city Songdo is chosen as a probable prototype.

Abstract: The subject of this article is the located at the crossroads of civilizations Balkan Peninsula, which throughout centuries is a sphere of geopolitical interests of various coalitions. Aggravation of the imperialist contradictions in the late XIX – early XX centuries led to the formation of "hot spot" in the southeast of Europe, which justly acquired the name of “powder keg”. The close ties between Russia and the nations of the peninsula have century-long traditions, but have been repeatedly subjected to various challenges, both domestic and external factors. The authors lean on the documents and studies of the Russian and foreign origin, which allow restoring the historical picture of the epoch. The main method of the research is the problematic-chronological. Despite the similarity in political and economic processes, the Balkan countries were unable to establish a strong alliance that could become an independent geopolitical player on the global arena. Moreover, the incompleteness of process of the formation of national states caused a series of military conflicts that continue to spark periodically even until present day.

Abstract: The subject of the study is a monograph by the Chinese author Zhao Linglin "How to Feed the Nation: China's Agricultural Innovations". This work is included in a series of books published by the St. Petersburg State Economic University in cooperation with the China Intercontinental Publishing House. Its relevance is due to the fact that in connection with the demographic explosion and depletion of resources, the solution of the problem of food security is a priority for most modern countries. The focus is on the innovations and biotechnologies that China uses to ensure its food security. While working on the review, Boltaevsky has used systems approach and logical methods as well as methods of historical and sociological analysis. The novelty of the research is caused both by the weak knowledge of the broad readership of dynamically developing China within which BRICS is becoming an increasingly important partner for our country and rich factual data on the state and prospects of the Chinese agricultural sector. The main conclusion of the monograph is that under the conditions of innovative economy small traditional producers give way to centralized enterprises using modern biotechnologies.

Abstract: The growing interest towards the defining moments in Russian history takes place under the conditions of establishment of Russia’s independent course. The object of fierce discussion, similar to the period of Perestroika, becomes the activity of J. V. Stalin, as well as the peculiarities of formation of the Soviet political system over the period of 1920’s – 1930’s. Some people see Stalin as a dictator, but other consider him a prominent government leader. At the same time, the interests to his persona causes the occurrence of various tendentious and falsified materials. The authors lean on a broad range of sources: documental materials, testimonies of political and military leaders, works of Russian and foreign experts, as well as use the comparative-historical and problematic-chronological methods. An average Russian believe that the great in Stalin’s era consists in increase of the political-military power of the country, success in industrial expansion, and most importantly – victory in the Great Patriotic War. All of these events overshadow the negative manifestations, such as mass repression, persecution of church alongside the academic and cultural figures, as well as devastation of peasantry during the process of collectivization. Depending on the sociopolitical situation in the country, the historical memory of our citizens will reproduce certain events of the period of 1920’s – 1950’s, which obscures the facts that contradict the established conjuncture. Stalin’s activity can be viewed as the creation of new political elite, which is capable of withstanding the internal and external challenges.

Abstract: The subject of research are the geopolitical games that revolved around the Balkans in the late XIX - early XX centuries. Bulgaria, Serbia, Romania - - Key countries in the region were involved in the diplomatic intrigues of the two opposing coalitions of the Entente and the Triple Alliance. Russia played an important role in the liberation of the peninsula from Ottoman rule, lost his position under pressure from England, Austria-Hungary and Germany. The diversity and heterogeneity of the ethnic composition of the peninsula, the difference of cultures, religions, landscape diversity - these are the reasons for a special kind of "contentiousness" of the Balkans. The authors used a wide range of domestic and foreign sources and studies, based on the comparative historical approach, the method of deduction and induction.The authors show that any interference by outside forces in the Balkans have a detrimental and fatal, not only for the region but for the entire world. The Balkans can be considered as the European continent in miniature, so dominant in the region within the state in its historical destiny is to be likened to the lead in Europe in Germany. From the tragedy of the Bulgarian monarchy after the First World War or the collapse of the Union of Yugoslavia after the end of the Cold War, in something similar to the German catastrophe that befell this country during the Second World War.

Abstract: The subject of study is the fate of the European Union, in a global sense, the whole of Europe. The current policy of the bureaucracy of the Old World has been criticized as a left and a right-wing position. Increasingly, states about the decline of Europe and the West in general. Changes ethnoconfessional view of a number of European countries continues to decrease its role in world politics. Special attention is paid to the evolution of views on European unity, showing the fundamental role of Germany in the process. Showing the main problems (crisis of identity, security, migration complexity), the solution of which depends on the existence of the European Union.The methodological base of the research is a comparative analysis and monitoring, as well as methods of deduction and induction.Attracting foreign and domestic sources and the study, the authors show that the crisis in Europe is caused by the Brussel's ongoing Atlanticist policy, close but unequal partnership with the United States. Strategy of development of the Old World should be the formation of a truly independent domestic and foreign policy, cooperation with Russia, as well othee countries which defend their sovereignty.

Abstract: Since the ancient times people were trying to adjust the surrounding space for their own comfort and convenience. The initial period of industrialization led to the violation of sanitary norms, overcrowded accommodations, and destruction of the usual environment. The response for this lied in the urban development theories from Ebenezer Howard to Le Corbusier, who attempted to set the city to serve the needs of men. But as a result, of various mistakes, these concepts turned out to be debunked. The future of the cities in many ways is defined by the main trends of development of the entire humanity: strive for comfort and interaction with the nature. The author uses the critical analysis of the existing urban concepts, as well as comparative and situational analysis for demonstrating the evolution in views upon the optimal development of the urban space. In the third millennium the essential task of humanity will consist in creation of the biosphere-compatible space. Under the conditions of megalopolis this task will be extremely difficult to accomplish, thus at the initiate stages the reformations must take place in small cities. The transition to the new energy-saving technologies will improve the urban environment; the sources of pollution will be eliminate, such technologies will be removed underground, and telecommunications will make the transportation of cargo across vast distances unnecessary. The alternative sources of energy will become more popular.

Abstract: The subject of this research is the modern civilization, which ever increasingly acquires and anthropogenic character. A number of researchers refer to its present state as critical, but all complex dissipative systems in its establishment go through the points of uncertainty, in which the future state of the system becomes unpredictable, while the magnitude of chaos reaches the maximum. The XXI century is being defined as an era of cities, but there are significant differences in development of these cities in the developed and developing countries. The authors give a general summary of the key trends of development of global civilization, as well as identify the key challenges of time and possibilities of adequate answer to these challenges. In the industrial era the city became the space of a strict segregation of people. The urban space divides people, and becomes the arena of sharp social, ethnic, and religious conflicts, producing the grounds for deviant behavior. The urban lifestyle also leads to aggravation of environmental problems. The project of garden city even in the modern post-industrial era remains utopic.

Abstract: The paper analyzes the social consequences of smoking. Particular attention is paid to the spread of smoking among urban youth. Smoking is rated as one of the forms of social deviance. Traces the economic, social and socio-cultural effects of tobacco use, says the relationship of smoking with urban lifestyle. The author raises the question about the causes of the wide spread of this type of deviation in modern society, especially among young people, and at the same time expresses the assumption that it is associated with tolerance of smoking in society in general. The author makes his conclusions on the basis of a poll conducted among students of the Moscow State University of Civil Engineering based on the step-by-step selection. In order to distract the youthfrom bad habits, there is a need for an effective counter-propaganda. It is necessaryto find new ways of agitation and propaganda in favor of a healthy lifestyle, bas well as ut also to provide leisure for teenagers and young people predominantly on the budgetary basis. Only the implementation of active measures is able to save the young generation from the harmful tobacco smoke.

Abstract: The subject of this research is the global challenges facing civilization in the beginning of the third millennium. Numerous facts show the close relationship between history and the history of nature. Biochemical processes, according to some researchers, have a direct impact not only on the behavior of individuals, but in general the whole society. Gumilev calls this phenomenon the effect of drive. The need for an equal relationship with nature suggest such dissimilar currents, both domestic cosmists philosophers, anthropologists and environmentalists the XX century., Public figures XX - XXI centuries., Representatives of the modern green. Methods of research in the article is the complex sociological and cultural approach that address the problem of the crisis of modern civilization at an angle different points of view. The article uses the data content analysis of national media and internet sources. The ongoing processes of globalization and the development of scientific and technological progress in our eyes lead mankind to a dead end. Contrary to forecasts Daniel Bell was not a panacea for global problems of post-industrial society. A further phase of the development of society must be based on a completely new way of thinking, whose foundations laid by Vernadsky, and then extended his followers and disciples.

Abstract: The subject of this research is the development of the municipal passenger transportation, without a proper functionality of which the modern city cannot exist. In the XX century the competition between the automobile and the public transportation gas grown; this first caused reduction in the intraurban transportation by bus, trolleybus, and tramway in the Western countries, and later in Russia. Such phenomenon appeared to be sudden for both categories, people in power, as well as specialists. The author examines the change of paradigms in dichotomy automobile – land transportation, pointing out the delay in the automobilization processes in Russia. Special attention is given to the questions of development of the municipal electric transportation, particularly the tramway. The author’s main contribution consists in the necessity of the urgent development of the public electric transportation in large and medium sized cities of Russia, specifically tramway, trolley bus, and the system of urban electric trains. It will allow improving not only the territorial accessibility, but also realize the environmental requirements essential for the modern city.

Abstract: The subject of this research is the urban water reservoirs within the framework of development of the modern anthropogenic civilization. Since the ancient times, water was not only a scarce resource, but also a notion of mythological and philosophical knowledge. Water environment played a major role in establishment of the first nations, as well as in development of economic relations by means of trade. Today, due to the demographic outbreak and environmental problems, in a number of regions we can observe a deficit of fresh water that eventually can cause the “water wars” in the future. Currently, the majority of humanity resides in cities in the conditions of artificial environment, and this is why the role of green environment and urban water reservoirs has increased. The relevance of the problem is substantiated by the continuing development of “polluting” productions within cities’ suburbs, urbanism, and change of needs of city residents.

Abstract: The subject of this research is prostitution as a form of social deviation, most common in the conditions of socio-economic crises. The public attitude towards this pathology has varied throughout different eras: from being accepted as a necessary measure, to complete condemnation. Prostitution should be separate from such notion as adultery, which is an unorganized attempt, a certain introduction to this sphere. Knowing the history of prostitution is necessary in order to combat this type of deviation in the future. In Russian society, prostitution has long been perceived as humiliation of women, which is the reason why writers, publicists, and social workers strived to fight this evil, primarily from the point of systemic regulation, existing in Russia since the 1840’s. Being the nation’s capital, Moscow has been the gravitation pull for individuals looking for easy money, and thus the place of help and rehabilitation for fallen women. The historical experience shows that same as in the imperial era, during the Soviet time the most productive were the methods of social patronage, rather than outright repression.

Abstract: The city has long been a focal point of the most active people seeking to build the surrounding area based on their tastes and ideas. Each person has his ideal, so the image of the city of the future sometimes differ quite dramatically: the underground, underwater and surface, orbital, and even hanging. Over the last two hundred years, the city became a source of major environmental disasters, social upheavals, a hotbed of deviations: futurists are looking for a way out of this situation, but the only true way can not be.The author critically examines the concept of cities of the future, using comparative and typological analysis to show the main trends in contemporary urban planning, based on the theory of Jean Baudrillard. The image of the cities of the future, created by sociologists and architects, often borders on science fiction. Despite the seemingly unrealistic idea of the underground, underwater and surface towns were embodied in the real world. The most important condition for the development of mega-cities is to improve the transport of the rare exceptions to the simulacra of a number of postmodern society.

Abstract: In the era of crisis sharply increase as forms and manifestations of various social deviations. The ratio of prostitution remains controversial in society: in Russia, for example, do not cease talking about its possible legalization. The study of this disease in our country is complicated by the impossibility of observation for researchers. Despite the fact that prostitution was ousted from the Russian streets, it remains one of the leading manifestation of shady business. Its development by modern Internet technologies.The author relies on the domestic and foreign publications on the subject, use the comparative historical method and critical analysis.Historical experience shows that the regulation of prostitution in the nineteenth century, both in Europe and in Russia had as its aim to prevent the large-scale spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Later, however, it became clear that this practice is misleading. Currently, the fight against the sex industry should be carried out as the economic levers - rising living standards, the fight against unemployment - and the revival of spirituality.

Abstract: The rapid development of scientific and technical progress requires constant monitoring of the state and civil society to quality, both secondary and higher education. In Russia at the present time there is a complex process of formation of the Bologna system, not only ambivalent about the different political forces, but also those who just have to deal with it: students, faculty members, employers. The author analyzes the problems of the modern professional technical in the first place, construction education, against the background of the general educational situation in the country.In the paper, the author draws on data from survey conducted by the Institute of Construction and Architecture Moscow State Construction University.The reforms of recent decades has not led to the creation of a competitive education system in Russia. The modern age requires a new approach based on mutual participation of higher education and employers in assessing the level of graduates and their qualifications. It must be guided not only by western standards, but also on the positive domestic educational experience.

Abstract: Social deviation as a sort of human diseases are studied as a scientific environment, and the various forms of art. Prostitution, being one of the oldest occupations remains indispensable companion of major cities and tourist centers. In Russia, widespread the phenomenon was caused by the penetration of Western mores, helped by Peter's reforms. At the same time, in addition to street prostitution in our country there were hidden forms associated with serfdom. The author examines this phenomenon on the basis of published domestic and foreign sources, as well as interviews. Legalization of prostitution, the possibility of which is discussed in Russian society the past quarter of a century, will only lead to a deepening of the blemish. The destruction of the gene pool of the nation, crippled lives, the development of addiction - this is an incomplete list of the possible consequences of this decision. Historical experience shows that state supervision of prostitution does not remove the shadow side of the phenomenon, but only authorizes this social disease.

Abstract: The paper suggests the evaluation of the reforms of Russian higher schools aimed at its gradual integration into the Bologna process that has been conducted in our country since 2003. Many experts notice the divorcement of Russian universities from the solution of practical tasks, visible weakness of Russian educational system compared to the Western one when it comes to the preparation of professionals in the field of applied sciences. The subject of the article is the question whether it is true and to which extent the students and teaching staff of Russian higher schools are ready for the new opportunities. The article analyses the results of an express survey conducted by the authors among the students and the teaching stuff. Among the factors that cause vigilance in Russian experts are the low level of knowledge regarding the aims of the reform and lack of information about the measures to improve the system of higher education. It is highlighted in the article that the main goal of studying according to the Bologna standards nowadays is the creation of united intellectual space. But as the conducted survey has shown, there are two factors that block the fulfilment of this goal: low level of foreign language skills by the students and insufficient income. These circumstances make it practically impossible for the majority of Russian students to study abroad and decreases the competitiveness of the graduates of Russian universities from the point of view of potential employers all over Europe. 

Abstract: The article discusses the concept of the biosphere-compatible settlements, one of which is the idea of "garden city" E. Howard, in the embodiment of our country began, including in the settlement Prozorovskaya in Moscow. Uncontrolled urbanization has led to housing, environmental and other issues on the lives of people. At the beginning of the XXI century. the struggle for a healthy environment is an important responsibility, as a government, and active citizens. The development of the capital metropolis is impossible without constant monitoring of the urban environment.The author uses the deductive-axiomatic approach. In particular, the potential danger of using the axiom of manufacturing processes and equipment.The environment can no longer cope with the pressure of the city, which implies the need for harmonious interaction between human society and nature. The first step on the way to the biosphere-compatible city should become permanent environmental monitoring, the output of polluting industries, transportation problems, and, ultimately, limit the uncontrolled growth of cities. The urban environment is analyzed, including on the basis of a survey conducted by students of the Moscow State Construction University.

Abstract: The Balkan region has long been a key in Eurasia. To him over the centuries gaze riveted the world's leading powers. But it was the beginning of the XX century. a continuous succession of local wars and delimitation of borders coined the term "powder keg of Europe". Ultimately, the events of those years were the beginning of the change of the underlying foundations of not only European but also the entire world civilization. Sarajevo shot was the beginning of a new era. The article reconstructs the events of a century ago on the basis of journalistic materials at that time, archival documents, modern research. Balkan knot led to large-scale fighting in the struggle for the redivision of the world. Most dramatically affected the First World Slavs: the war became Golgotha for Russia, Serbia, Bulgaria. Russia, like a phoenix, reborn in the Soviet Union, Serbia has lost himself in Yugoslavia, and Bulgaria received a second consecutive humiliating. The revival of the Slavs occurred only at the end of World War II.

Abstract: The First World War radically changed not only the political map of Europe, but also social relations, will largely determine the development of the XX century. Balkan Peninsula was at the epicenter of events: that's where the war took place first Slavic countries with the Ottoman Empire and then the conflict between the former allies. Sarajevo assassination, it is not without the knowledge of the Serbian military officers, led to a Europe-wide disaster. Part of the world wars in the Balkans were the defense of Serbia in 1914-1915, The Dardanelles operation, Thessaloniki and Romanian companies. The article uses the historical-genetic, historical, comparative, historical and typological method. Considerable attention is paid to the diplomatic documents, recreate the atmosphere of the era. The Balkans appeared region where not only started, but actually determined the victory of the Entente in 1918. Through narrowcasting personal policy of the leading world powers have contributed to the same tendency in the Balkan states. This led to a radical revision of the borders after the war, that does not take into account, and could not take into account the interests of all countries and peoples. Currently, the unresolved issue of the Balkans continues to aggravate the situation in Europe.

Abstract: The authors examine the events that took place in the Slavic world throughout the twentieth century, Important znacie for understanding these events are historical and philosophic concept, created by the national elites: Eurasianism, pan-Slavism, sleevenote, "czechoslovakism", national-Bolshevism. On the basis of them had various ideologies, some of which tried to justify the practice of integration of the Slavs into a single unit, and the other emphasizing the uniqueness of this or that ethnic group, contrasted it with the others. The success of Eastern European countries relied on cooperation with the Russian Empire and then the Soviet Union, and a phenomenon such as the Russian emigration.n the article the development of the Slavs is investigated based on the concept of V.I. Lamanskogo. Use comparative-historical and problem-chronological methods.During the XX century, our country several times lost, and then again earned its position among the Slavic countries: first, the crisis of the early XX century, as manifested in the distance after the revolution of 1917, then the authority of the victorious countries over gitlerizmom. Modern international processes related to the increasing influence of Russia and the collapse of a unipolar world again forced to speak about the importance of the unity of Slavic civilization before call time.

Abstract: The relevance of the proposed research is to impart a strictly necessary character to the conclusions of sociology. Claims of social sciences on scientific rigor will not be realized as long as the logical consistency requirement is unsatisfied, i.e., the requirement to establish a logical-conceptual apparatus, the methodological framework that would help overcome the one-sided empiricism of sociologists in their studies. According to the authors, Alfred Schutz's ideas should help to achieve this goal. The relevance of this study is also determined by the necessety to overcome the gap between general theoretical research and empirical level of knowledge, the latter is often being limited to the collection of individual data and conduction of surveys in social groups. The authors of this article associate the strengthening of the logical and methodological component in the sociological study with the name of Schutz. They believe that this is the methodology of Schutz that will facilitate objective consideration of phenomena of social reality. In terms of methodology this work is based on the idea of the fruitfulness of synthesis (the synthetic unity) of the objective and the intuitive and reflexive-empirical and formal logic methods in social cognition. Estimating Alfred Schutz' conclusions, the authors use the comparative historical approach, qualitative content analysis of sources (philosophical and sociological works of the researchers of the XIX-XX centuries including Tarde, Weber and Schutz himself). Additionally, the authors apply scientific methods of analogy, generalization, abstraction, deductive application recognized as the true position with reference to new scientific material, etc. The novelty of the proposed approach is caused by the fact that the authors apply Alfred Schutz's ideas to the determination of the degree of scientific rigor of findings in social sciences. The authors consider this social philosopher to be one of the few supporters of the creative synthesis of traditional positivist approach and phenomenological analysis of social reality. The authors of this article are based on the fact that the place of methodological and logical units in social cognition has been insufficiently studied. Application to fill such gaps, especially when it concerns the social and philosophical heritage of Alfred Schutz, is made in the present study. Noteworthy that the analysis of Schultz' ideas is presented in comparison to the problems raised by Tarde and Weber. Edmund Husserl is also used by the authors. Trying to uncover the meaning of the methodological innovations of a major Austro-American social philosophe is also a new approach in the study of his scientific legacy.

Abstract: Every year, people's demands towards urban space grow more and more. However, many megacities represent a concentration of career aspirations and criminal activity on behalf of the population. On one hand, the city offers maximum return on one's labour, on the other - criminal risks are higher, transport and housing problems take away from the comfort of life. A megacity is becoming a foreign object on the planet. At the example of large cities - Moscow in particular, the author demonstrates leading trends in favourable habitat development. This article is written, based on a critical, dialectic and hermeneutic methods. The author analyzes the sources of urban habitat development. In practice, the perfect city is a utopic concept, because the views and opinions vary per individual. At the same time, an organized space should be based on the following elements: aesthetically favourable habitat, connection with the environment, transport accessibility. To achieve those goals, constant cooperation between the citizens and the authorities is necessary.

Abstract: In article the political project of the famous domestic religious philosopher and theologian P. A. Florensky "Predicted state system in the future" which still wasn't discussed in serious political and philosophical literature is considered. Global contradictions of the modern world do the similar analysis especially actual especially as at the heart of work of the father Pavel there is a concept of creation of the ideal state by means of stage-by-stage social reforming. The developed world order carries on the negative tradition which is sharply criticized at the beginning of a prolshy century.When writing work as authors the comparative-historical method allowing to shed light on the political circumstances promoting emergence of this brilliant historico-philosophical document is used. In particular, conclusions of P. A. Florensky and L. M. Lapshin, L. P. Karsavin and prominent hierarches of Russian Orthodox Church of the beginning of the last century are compared. In article the assessment of teoretiko-political conclusions of the uncommon thinker and theologian is given. The problem of a ratio of private and public interest, in the course of adoption of political decisions, a problem of the accounting of group and nation-wide needs for practice of the legislator is discussed. The analysis of work of the father Pavel is attached to the solution of the current problems of political and social construction in our country. 

Abstract: During the periods of transitio the society demonstrates anomia, social deviations and, therefore, growing interest towards these issues. It suffices to recall the Perestroika era of the late 1980th with its sharply increased attention to previously forbidden topics such as drug addiction, alcoholism and sexual deviations including prostitution. The latter is of special interest not only because prostitution is a widely spread phenomenon in modern Russia but also because there are ongoing discussions about whether prostitution should be legalized. The author of the present research article makes an attempt to trace back the development of views on prostitution and 'demi-mondaines' in order to predict what direction the further development of the phenomenon may take. The author is viewing the development of the prostitution phenomenon on the basis of numerous sources and researches of both Russian and foreign essay writers and scientists. According to the author, modern society sets false targets before an individual by the means of popular culture and others and therefore 'reaps the fruits' of it in a form of various social anomalies. The national idea which will fill in the spiritual gaps, revive morals and as a result cross cross out benefits from this activity along with improvement of social and economic living conditions of the population should be most important means of reducing the number of prostitutes.

Abstract: For the last quarter of century the average of prostitutes lowered to 14-15 years old. But serious talks about child and teenager prostitutions began in the end of XIX century. The article reviews historical experience of fighting this phenomenon, which is also important for a present-day situation. The author compares the expansion and fight against child prostitution in the Russian Empire and the USSR, showing drawbacks and mistakes of the State power bodies and public organizations.  The researcher reviews this difficult and long time concealed topic in the basis of statistical data, publications and contemporary researches. Child prostitution spreads in the conditions of family values crisis, the absence of a working lawful basis of punishments of pimps and the consumers of such services. A big increase of this social deviation appeared during the First World War because of bad economic conditions and an increasing number of refugees from Western regions.  During the period of NEP many street children were involved in prostitution. The Soviet state changed the situation not only with the help of repressive measures, but also with strong attention to motherhood and childhood.

Abstract: Forming a cultural image of the two Russian capitals is a recent and important challenge. Historical collisions that resulted in Moscow and St. Petersburg being brought apart were the basis for the forming of two major paradigms in history, which reflected the complexity and ambiguity of Russia's path in history. This is why we see a dichotomy in the image of the two capitals in A.I. Solzhenitsyn’s creative work, as well as its emerging depth and dialectic nature. Nostalgic images of pre-Revolution Moscow, as evident on the pages of the "Red Wheel" are replaced by political metaphor which became the main stylistic technique of works devoted to Stalin-era Russia. The main method of this research is the analysis of text meaning from the perspective of social and cultural context. The author explores an area that few ever touched upon, as far as A.I. Solzhenitsyn’s work is concerned, as he analyzes the cities not as mere historical setting, but rather as full actors on the stage of the great author's books. A city is presented as a collective actor, an animate being which actively impacts the lives of the main characters.

Abstract: First and foremost, the authors link the relevance of this study with the aggravation of environment, ecological, social, climatic and other issues which are specific to urban areas in the beginning of the XXI century. Not only large cities, but the whole area affected by the devastating impact of technological expansion. Under these conditions, the cooperation of the city authorities with environmentalists to create a comfortable environment is an important factor in solving these problems. However, there are some obstacles associated with the intervention of interest groups that use these problems to solve their short-term political goals. The study used hydrological monitoring data gathered in the regional centers of Moscow region, analyzing media sources, primarily regional newspapers and magazines. The novelty of the method proposed by the authors is based upon the connection of the social and natural aspects of urban area problems analysis. It's possible that the research conducted in the article will become a stepping stone for further research in this new field of social cognition - Social Hydroecology. Creating a comfortable environment is definitely possible with the cooperation between urban authorities and civil society, as far as architectural and planning are concerned.

Abstract: The challenges that Russia faces in the modern globalizing world present the issues of forming a long-standing social and demographic policy. Currently, our country's population constututes less than half of an optimal value for a territory as big as 17th of habitable land. At the same time, developing neighbouring countries like China, India and Pakistan experience a constant growth in poopulation. The experts suggest that Earth's population numbers area approaching critical values, which correlates with economic data. The authors use social and demographic projections by S.M. Shirokogorov, N.A. Vasilyev and P.A. Sorokin in their research. In order to solve Russia's demographic crisis, we must take into account the state of education and healthcare, not just raw population numbers. It is not possible to overcome this challenge in urban environment, and thus, we must focus our effort on developing and supporting the rural parts of Russia. Competent government policies for improving demographics must be long-term oriented, keeping in mind that depopulation problems cannot be solved in one swipe.

Abstract: Public utilities are an integral part of everyday lives of the urban population, involving anything from street cleaning to convenient payment for utilities. The interaction between local authorities and the citizens often becomes an intense confrontation, especially in situations when municipal authorities demonstrate incompetence. The issue of high-quality utilities in residential areas goes hand in hand with the price tag, and this dilemma is an evident link in the chain of unsolved problems of modern urban life. The civil society is instrumental in creating a comfortable habitat. In this work, we employed the study of a case building, and its close examination. The author has also conducted a content-analysis of publications in municipal periodics. This article analyzes the state of affairs in Public utilities in Myrishi, Aprelevka and Naro-Fominsk. Despite the rapid development of infrastructure, this area is inseparable from regional processes. The escalation of Public utilities costs for the population continues, and this fact gives ground to possible conflict between residents and executive authorities.

Abstract: It has been one hundred years since the beginning of the First World War and both historians and all who concern about the past are again interested in the lessons of the First World War. Despite the well known opposition of the two military alliances, the war was quite unexpected by most of regular population. Yet, the war was first perceived as something elated or grandiose. The murderer of the heir presumptive to the Austria-Hungarian throne Franz Ferdinand followed by the Sarajevo crisis led to the global conflict and the crisis of all European civilizations. Based on the memories of the eyewitnesses, feature materials and archive documents, the author of the article re-enact circumstances that led to the murderer in Sarajevo and event afterwards. According to the author of the article, the spiritual crisis of the European civilization was the true reason of the world conflict. The society was inevitably coming to that and encouraged by military and political leaders. Almost all governments of the leading European countries were interested in Franz Ferdinant's death. They wanted to change the situation in the world but need an official reason to take actions. 

Abstract: The Moscow superregion (Moscow and Moscow region) boasts fairly stable birth rates, especially in comparison with other Russian regions. However, this involves the necessity for solving such social problems as creating comfortable environment for children and their parents, including pre-school facilities, playgrounds, etc. Properly organized architectural environment is paramount to children's socialization. However, the steps taken are not yet enough to solve this problem. Basing on publicism and polling, this article studies the problem of social space for the young urban dwellers. To overcome the demographic lapse, urban planning that takes into account the comfort of children and young parents becomes highly necessary. At the same time, organization of space for children and teenagers results in local conflicts, based on clashing interests of different social groups in modern cities.

Abstract: The present time is characterized by economic competition escalation, the return to block mentality in politics, information globalization, and economic fundamentalism as the identity of American hegemony, and the issue of conservation and evaluation of steady industrial development becomes more and more pronounced, because various modernization strategies are ambiguous in terms of steady growth indicators. The authors examine steady development from the standpoint of urban economy, on global scale, as well: the "world city" and the "world farmland". In their research of economic dynamics, the authors employ the systemic approach, which involves the analysis of business growth within the system or a city's (municipality's) and national economy - taking into account the interconnection of the elements, as opposite to isolated study. Market fundamentalism basically is the minimization of interference in the economy, which opposes the concept of steady growth. Modern businesses cannot emerge, or grow anywhere without state regulation and support. On the agenda, there also is the issue of alternative globalization, which would allow to take into account the interests of all countries, bar none - a globalization that would put an end to segregation between the rich and the poor.

Abstract: This article examines reading as one of the traditional leisure activities of urban dwellers. The reading culture as a distinct kind of communication has already been studied by social and cultural scientists of XX-eth century like N.A. Rubankin, I.A. Butenko, P.B. Biryukov, B.A. Uspenskiy. Reading is presented as a necessary attribute for urban cultural life. Attention is focused on youth reading, especially technical collegehigher education institution student reading. This defined the object and subject of the research for this work. The authors employ public opinion surveys, based on MGSU control groups. The authors also employed the systemic analysis methods that enabled the authors to link the state of modern information culture with reading traditions. The novelty of this research is defined by the fact that the authors have successfully conducted a synthesis of cultural and social science approaches to studying reading as a phenomenon, as well as information culture as a whole. Cultural science's non-numerical conclusions were taken into account, as well as social science's numerical data in youth control groups. Another novelty is the attempt to compare traditional forms of reading head to head with IT-spread-based information exchange forms.

Abstract: Recently the problems related to such modern forms of slavery as sexual trafficking of women and children have been seriously exacerbated. These criminal activities allow criminals to earn very good money and therefore create a serious threat to national security of the Russian Federation. Solution of these problem is possible only if the government and society put forth mutual efforts towards it. Special attention should be paid to prevention of child prostitution. The level of child prostitution has grown drastically due to the Internet development. The author of the article views the phenomenon of modern people trafficking within a historical context based on foreign and Russian sources and researches. People trafficking does not only create a threat for invididuals, it also creates grounds for the spread of organized crime which, in its turn, endangers the security and law and order on a nationwide scale. The most important factor for increasing the percentage of people involved in prostitution is the solution of economic difficulties experienced by the population and support of family, matherhood and children. 

Abstract: The article contains analysis of the consequences of Russia joining the WTO, the authors refer to the expert opinions, including those of economists, heads of Russian agricultural companies, village residents.  The object of studies is the Russian agricultural industry and the influence of globalization processes on it. The authors provide critical evaluation of the conclusions of economy experts, heads of large agricultural production companies. The latter note the negative consequences of Russia joining the WTO for the Russian agriculture and offer alternative economic projects.  The modern development of Russian agricultural production is analyzed within the context of Russian rural reforms, which took place in the XX century in the sphere of rural economics.  Based upon the historical analysis the authors draw a conclusion that the Russian village in the early XXI century did not manage to overcome the economic, social, and cultural crises, and Russia joining the WTO strengthens negative consequences in some aspects.  The conclusions of the authors regarding the perspectives of the economic development of the Russian villages are supported by the statistics.

Abstract: In this article, the conflict of the controlled versus the spontaneous serves as a prism for analyzing modern urban studies trends, such as deindustrialization, deurbanization, environmentalization, comprehensive planning, legal regulation of the economy, conversion of urban industrial sites, migration flow control. The authors direct attention to the contradictory nature of processes that can be observed in the organization of architectural and planning areas of the modern megapolys, the crises that need to be overcome, for the sake of our civilization. Our civilization faces growing global challenges, the overcoming of which is key to preservation of humanity as a species, and thus, harnessing the elements of the city becomes a priority task. Scholars who research this field often miss the existence of two paradigms that emerged in architectonic studies. On one side, there's the "machine-city" paradigm, on the other, there's the "living city" that adheres to objective laws of nature. This article demonstrates contradictory elements in both approaches, as well as potential points of convergence, for mutual enrichment that could result in a general synthesis of urban development models. The result of city-planning processes is ambiguous to this day: problems with the environment, increasing social friction. In the modern world, the process of increasing complexity of urban development, the increase of demands towards housing and social environment give opportunities to professional integrators to unite the various urban segments, the architectonics, into one. The multivectoral nature of modern city development is largely dictated by the gradual replacement of the technocratic model with the biospheric approach. We need a city that can work with the input from all of its dwellers, for it to become comfortable for habitation and friendly to the environment.

Abstract: The antinomy of Russian history is a concrete example of the contradictory and paralogic nature of social phenomena as a whole. One such example is the continuous rivalry between the two Russian capitals - Moscow and St. Petersburg. Exploring this topic, the authors suggest taking into account the accomplishments of philosophers, historians and social activists of the Russian Silver century which took place just before the 1917 revolution. It is obvious that the presence of two centers of government and social life reflected a parallel existence of two cultural dominants - the modernist Westernism, that was embodied by the image of "North Palmira", and the conservative traditionalist Slavophilic, represented by the ancient capital of Moskovia. This bipolarity was reflected in the debates among intellectual elites who had different points of view on cultural development. For the methodological basis for their conclusions, the authors utilize the ideas of outstanding Russian logicians and philosophers. Russian culture has long noticed the rift between the capitals. The discourse of Russian revolutionary thinkers of the balance between the Moscow and St. Petersburg cultural paradigms finds itself precisely in the context of the search for national identity in literature and philosophy. The assessments of revolution occurred mostly from the patriotic Slavophile viewpoints, which couldn't have agreed with the opinions of Bolshevik leaders that rained destructive criticism on their accidental fellow's social and historic formations.

Abstract: The problem of creating a clean, biosphere-compatible urban environment is currently one of the major issues for our society. Its importance is dictated by the multivectoral nature of modern megapolys development, which, in turn, becomes a stimulus for a transition from a technocratic model of urban planning to a biosphere-compatible one. However, the results of the current urban planning process appears ambiguous: by limiting industry development in some cases, the urban planners make other, no less serious problems, even worse. Because of this, the author believes that it is necessary to analyze the current situation in cities, to analyze the dynamics of environmentalist movements that are currently fashionable due to the modern social and political paradigms, to evaluate their potential good and harm. Case study is the main method of analysis in this work. The cases are analyzed for modern ecourban trends, deindustrialization, advertisement business regulations, ecologization, comprehensive planning, legal regulation of nuclear industry, interactions between environment movements and business. This work also employs traditional general scientific methods of inductive generalization of facts and deductive application of the generalizations generated, for the sake of identifying patterns in the dynamics of urban life. The author draws attention to the inconsistency of statements issued in the architecture and environment planning of modern cities, to the crises that we need to overcome for the sake of our civilization. The author points out the dysfunction of modern environmentalist movements - they are too political. And it becomes a reason for conflict situations and interferes with constructive dialog between the civil society and the Federal and municipal authorities (Selyatin and Khimki forest protection movements come to mind).

Abstract: This paper analyzes several separate aspects of the work of the outstanding Russian engineer and architect, Vladimir Grigoryevich Shukhov, and evaluates his projects of innovation. As the brightest examples of this, the author chose the main railroad project of the scholar - the débarcadère section of the Kiev railway terminal and the famous radio tower in Shabolovka. Shukhov was a virtuoso who managed to combine functional technological qualities (ease of use, technical simplicity) and aesthetics, the most important of which is the commensurability of the building and the surrounding landscape. The article focuses attention on the similarities in the approach to architecture between Schukhov and modern biotech, which suggests that the Russian architect employed the analogy method. The second part of the article explores the methodology of V.G. Shukhov's work. The biomorphic analogies, created by Shukhov's patents, are on-demand by world architecture's celebrities. Aesthetic tastes that developed with the contribution of the works by the Russian genius, continue to dominate modern engineering practices to this day.Methodological aspects of Shukhov's creativity are a good reason to return to the topic of "Shukhov and the social and cultural dynamic of the XX century", to address the issue of the synthesis of cultures - the technological and science culture, and the humanitarian culture that persisted in this period of time.

Abstract: This article examines the current state of affairs regarding transportation accessibility for the mobility-impaired urban dwellers. The author evaluates the solutions applied by Moscow, Moscow Region's cities and other major Russian cities. Proper ramps and sidewalks are a priority to ensure access by the disabled and parents with baby strollers. The author points out that the absense of a unified strategy in this area results in severe complications for those that need accessible environment. As an example for the authorities, the author points out the "Reminder for architects" paper that was devised by Urban planning authorities of Chita.
Issues of transportation for the mobility-impaired citizens, as the focus of this paper, are explored on the basis of media publications, surveys and urban planning documentation, focusing on three main topics: equipping public transport stops, commissioning new means of transportation that would accommodate mobility-impaired citizens, building roads and access points for the disabled. Analyzing the rich factual base and comparing the current state of affairs and project requirements in official documentation, the author concludes that, despite of all state standards of accessible environment planning, social infrastructure is still being built with little regard for the norms at large. It is possible to salvage the situation by implementing the «Tempus Project CENEAST: Reformation of the Curricula on Built Environment in the Eastern Neighbouring Area», developed by the political and social science department of Moscow State University of Civil Engineering into urban planning. The goal of the project is to reform the education of bachelors, specialists and magisters by introducing new modules, including environment modules aimed at the creation of biosphere-friendly space in cities, comfortable environment for the mobility-impaired.
 

Abstract: During the Perestroika (late 1980s reforms), a social revolution took place in Russia, resulting in a sharp turn in the system of values for ordinary citizens. Sexual emancipation became an integral part of their lives - both, sex industry workers and outright pornography emerged from the underground, which contributed to moral decline of some Russian citizens. Over the last 25 years, voices emerge that advocate the legalization of prostitution as an integral part of urban environment. To get to the heart of this problem, it is important to explore historical experience of fighting prostitution in Russia. The author uses statistical data, testimonies of contemporaries and publications of domestic and foreign authors.
In the modern period, the fight against prostitution mustn't be primarily based on repression and fighting prostitutes themselves, like 100 years ago, and mostly now, but rather on social aid and cultural education. Mass Media must be sex industry advertisement-free. Legalization of prostitution will only lead to its further expansion, as well as sex-tourism, which will undoubtedly have corrupting influence, especially on younger generations. The city must be a place for personal growth, not degradation.

Abstract: The task of integrated city space arrangement is a constant in the urban development line of thought. The various solutions for this problem were offered by both, ancient social philosophers and modern town-planners and architects. The XXth century is marked by a pronounced standoff between the industrial-type city and the "garden city". This paper deals with the historical opposition of the two concepts: the technopolis and the ecocity. The authors offer a retrospective analysis of research conducted on this issue, as well as conceptual schemes and examples of their realization in urban development practice. This article adopts a comparative and historical approach, the analogy method and inductive generalization of mass media on the topic at hand. At the present time, the technopolis vs ecocity dichotomy has lost its importance, because it defined the two vectors of urban civilization development in an industrial age. The theorists of architecture strive to avoid the mutual exclusion of environment-friendliness and high technology. The projects for the cities of the future, on one hand, satisfy the standards of biosphere compatibility, and on the other hand, meet the challenges of the high-tech era.

Abstract: The article shows the role and important of Salonika battle front during the First World War. The author of the article describes the nature of military actions and diplomatic discussions. Russian literary sources still focus rather on the Western and Eastern fronts. At the Salonika front the Entente forces consisted of English, French, Italian, Russian and later Greek people. Therefore, it would be interesting to study historical experience of cooperation of allies as a coalition. Personal interests of coalition participants interfered with their strategic cooperation. The author of the article also shows the influence of the Russian February Revolution and the phenomenon of 'brotherhood' in 1917. 
In 1918 in the Salonika front the 'Entente Cordiale March' was created to celebrate the withdrawal of Austrian-Hungarian forces (the main ally of Germany). 

Abstract: The process of large-scale urbanization, which began in XIX century, resulted in not only to the rapid growth of cities, but also in broad spread of urban lifestyle. Along with positive effects of this process, we can also see negative consequences, like the quantitative growth of social deviation. Prostitution as a form of human trafficking is an indispensable segment of urban culture, even to this day. Only by studying its nature can we find methods of its eradication. The author examines modern period prostitution as an urban social anomaly, basing his research on documents, memoires, published media by both, foreign and domestic authors. The article shows the roots of study on prostitution, as well as the circumstances for its emergence and growth in Russia. Prostitution as a form of human trafficking deserves condemnation not only in public opinion, religious organizations, but within authorities, as well. Only by working together can we save the fairer sex from defilement, as long as we remember the hundreds of thousands of broken lives.