The Concept of Legal Culture within the Framework of a Cultural Approach

The work delves into the study of legal culture through the prism of the cultural approach. In contrast to narrow legal analysis, legal culture is not seen as an isolated system of norms and rules, but as an integral part of society, deeply rooted in its cultural foundations. It includes historically established traditions, social norms, moral values and beliefs that shape citizens’ perception and understanding of the law. The article analyzes in detail the functions of legal culture in a broad cultural context – ensuring compliance with legal norms, formation of civic responsibility, strengthening the legitimacy of state institutions, promoting social order and harmonious de-velopment of society. Particular attention is paid to the influence of the level of legal culture on the sustainability of democracy as a political system enshrined in the Constitution of the Russian Federation. The key features of a developed legal culture are defined: the importance of legal nihilism, respect for the law, active participation of citizens in the law-making process, and competent application of legal norms. Proposed ways to develop legal culture involve broad legal education, improvement of the education system, increasing the effectiveness of law enforcement, as well as the formation of a culture of tolerance and mutual respect in society.