Norbert Elias (1897–1990) was a German sociologist, author of numerous works on general sociology, the sociology of science and art, who sought to overcome structuralist staticism in the interpretation of social processes. Elias’ ideas are most influential in Holland and Germany, where there are associations of his followers. In his main work “On the Process of Civilization. Sociogenetic and Psychogenetic Research" (1939) Elias developed an original concept of civilization, combining in a single theory of social change numerous data obtained by historians, anthropologists, psychologists and sociologists in isolation from each other. Using rich historical and literary material, he traced the transformation of the psychological structures, habits and manners of people in Western European society from the Middle Ages until our time, showing the connection of this transformation with social and political changes, as well as the influence of these processes on the formation of those forms of behavior that in modern society are considered “civilized” and “cultural.” Addressed to a wide range of readers interested in problems of cultural history, sociology and philosophy.