Culture as a kind of «knowledge» and a form of «reaction»

This article is devoted to the conceptualization of culture in terms of its understanding as a form of «knowledge», providing the human interaction with the enclosing reality. Based on this understanding of the culture’s nature the article analyzes its essential features, primary basis, and the mechanisms of formation and development. The article uses materials of the scientific correspondence of the author with emeritus professor of physics and the history of science at Harvard University Mr. Gerald Holton.