The monograph is written by a team of authors, united by the work on a research project, the title of which is adequate to the title of the monograph. The novelty of the project is due to the complex approach to the study of socio-cultural functions of education in Russia; the inclusion of new empirical data into the scientific turnover; the use of theoretical approaches, corresponding to the modern world level. The book can be addressed to all those involved in the study of the problems of the modern world, students studying in related educational programs, a wide range of readers.