Essence of social consciousness: formation of meanings

As the title implies the article describes social consciousness as an abstract notion and as a phenomenon. The importance of understanding the universal laws and principles underlying social consciousness, as well as the interdependence of its abstract and concrete manifestations, is stated. The methodology and organization of the study involves an integrated approach (dialectical, analytical, phenomenological). G. Hegel’s philosophy serves as a methodological basis. It is stressed that the novelty of the study consists in the consideration of social consciousness as a theoretical construct, an abstract idea (concept) and empirical reality (phenomenon). The essence of social consciousness is revealed in the context of its formal and content aspects. Individual subjectivity of consciousness in the context of broader social and cultural systems that form the nature of self-consciousness and its connection with morality is revealed. The concept of social consciousness is presented as a complex phenomenon encompassing the system of attitudes, beliefs, values and norms that exist in society and influence the behavior of its members.