The evolution of the concept of “ideology” and its modern meaning are considered, a definition of political ideology is given, its functions, levels and functioning mechanism are revealed. Separate chapters are devoted to the consideration of traditional ideologies, doctrines and concepts of social movements of left and right orientation, socio-political ideas of alternative movements, social doctrines of Catholicism, Orthodoxy and Islam. University students studying in the specialty "Political Science", as well as anyone interested in problems of ideology and politics.